Surgical instrument with slip ring assembly to power ultrasonic transducer

ABSTRACT

A surgical instrument includes a rotatable electrical coupling assembly having a first part and a second part that electrically couple and rotate relative to each other. The second part is carried by and rotates with a tube collar coupled to a transducer. A portion of the transducer is inserted through an aperture of the second part, but does not contact the second part. The first part of the assembly may electrically couple to the second part via pogo pins, brush contacts, or ball bearings. Alternatively, the first part may comprise conductive channels formed in the casing. The second part may comprise a rotatable drum with a conductive trace. In some versions, one or more components may comprise MID components. In another version, the rotatable electrical coupling assembly comprises a rotatable PC board and brush contact. Further still, a circuit board may be provided with the transducer inside a transducer casing.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/410,603, filed Nov. 5, 2010, entitled “Energy-Based SurgicalInstruments,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein.

This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/487,846, filed May 19, 2011, entitled “Energy-Based SurgicalInstruments,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein.

BACKGROUND

In some settings, endoscopic surgical instruments may be preferred overtraditional open surgical devices since a smaller incision may reducethe post-operative recovery time and complications. Consequently, someendoscopic surgical instruments may be suitable for placement of adistal end effector at a desired surgical site through a cannula of atrocar. These distal end effectors may engage tissue in a number of waysto achieve a diagnostic or therapeutic effect (e.g., endocutter,grasper, cutter, stapler, clip applier, access device, drug/gene therapydelivery device, and energy delivery device using ultrasound, RF, laser,etc.). Endoscopic surgical instruments may include a shaft between theend effector and a handle portion, which is manipulated by theclinician. Such a shaft may enable insertion to a desired depth androtation about the longitudinal axis of the shaft, thereby facilitatingpositioning of the end effector within the patient.

Examples of endoscopic surgical instruments include those disclosed inU.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2006/0079874, entitled “Tissue Pad Use with anUltrasonic Surgical Instrument,” published Apr. 13, 2006, the disclosureof which is incorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2007/0191713, entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating,”published Aug. 16, 2007, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2007/0282333, entitled “UltrasonicWaveguide and Blade,” published Dec. 6, 2007, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2008/0200940,entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Cutting and Coagulating,” published Aug.21, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein;U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0015660, entitled “Rotating Transducer Mount forUltrasonic Surgical Instruments,” published Jan. 20, 2011, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein; U.S. Pat. No.6,500,176, entitled “Electrosurgical Systems and Techniques for SealingTissue,” issued Dec. 31, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporatedby reference herein; and U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0087218, entitled“Surgical Instrument Comprising First and Second Drive SystemsActuatable by a Common Trigger Mechanism,” published Apr. 14, 2011, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Additionally,such surgical tools may include a cordless transducer such as thatdisclosed in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2009/0143797, entitled “CordlessHand-held Ultrasonic Cautery Cutting Device,” published Jun. 4, 2009,the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

In addition, the surgical instruments may be used, or adapted for use,in robotic-assisted surgery settings such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 6,783,524, entitled “Robotic Surgical Tool with UltrasoundCauterizing and Cutting Instrument,” issued Aug. 31, 2004.

While several systems and methods have been made and used for surgicalinstruments, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors has madeor used the invention described in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly pointout and distinctly claim this technology, it is believed this technologywill be better understood from the following description of certainexamples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary surgical systemcomprising a surgical instrument and a generator;

FIG. 2 depicts a side elevation view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly for an exemplary transducer having nodalflanges;

FIG. 3 depicts an exploded perspective view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly having electrode bridges and ring contacts;

FIG. 4 depicts a partial perspective cross-sectional view the rotatableelectrical coupling assembly of FIG. 3 showing a first bridgeelectrically coupled to a first ring contact and a subsequent bridgeinsulated from a second ring contact;

FIG. 5 depicts a partial perspective cross-sectional view the rotatableelectrical coupling assembly of FIG. 3 showing a second bridgeelectrically coupled to a second ring contact;

FIG. 6 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly having an exemplary cable plug insertableinto an exemplary transducer;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary rotatable electricalcoupling assembly having enlarged electrodes electrically coupling tostator conductors of a stator casing;

FIG. 8 depicts an enlarged partial perspective cross-sectional view ofthe rotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 7 showing theelectrically coupling of the electrodes to the stator conductors;

FIG. 9 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly having waved electrodes;

FIG. 10 depicts a front elevation view of an exemplary waved electrodefor the rotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplaryrotatable electrical coupling assembly having an outer housing assemblyand an inner stator assembly configured to form a plurality of pancakeslip ring assemblies;

FIG. 12 depicts an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of therotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 11 showing an outer rotordisc electrically coupling to an inner stator disc;

FIG. 13 depicts a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplaryalternative rotatable electrical coupling assembly having an outerhousing assembly and an inner stator assembly configured to form aplurality of pancake slip ring assemblies;

FIG. 14 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly having a threaded cable and twistablewires;

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of the rotatable electrical couplingassembly of FIG. 14 showing the rotatable electrical coupling assemblycoupled to a proximal end of a transducer;

FIG. 16 depicts a side elevation view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly having a plurality of ball bearingselectrically coupled to the electrodes of a transducer;

FIG. 17 depicts an enlarged partial side cross-sectional view of anexemplary alternative rotatable electrical coupling assembly showing apair of ball bearings in troughs and having wires electrically couplingthe ball bearings to the electrodes of a transducer;

FIG. 18 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary alternativerotatable electrical coupling assembly having spring-biased ballbearings electrically coupling to electrodes in troughs;

FIG. 19 depicts a side cross-sectional view of yet another exemplaryrotatable electrical coupling assembly having a rotatable drumelectrically coupled to pogo pins;

FIG. 20 depicts a side elevation view of an exemplary alternativerotatable drum coupleable to crimp contacts;

FIG. 21 depicts a top plan view of two strings of electrodes havingintegrated crimp contacts to couple to the drum of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of another alternative rotatable drumhaving a peg and a top plan view of a conductive portion coupleable tothe rotatable drum;

FIG. 23 depicts a perspective view of yet another alternative rotatabledrum having slots and a top plan view of a conductive portion coupleableto the rotatable drum;

FIG. 24 depicts a perspective view of still another alternativerotatable drum having arcuate slots and a top plan view of a conductiveportion coupleable to the rotatable drum;

FIG. 25 depicts a partial side perspective view of an exemplaryalternative rotatable electrical coupling assembly having a drumcontained within a casing rotatably secured by pegs;

FIG. 26 depicts an exploded perspective view of the drum and casing ofFIG. 25;

FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of the drum and casing of FIG. 26shown assembled together;

FIG. 28 depicts a perspective view of still yet another exemplaryrotatable electrical coupling assembly having a biased contact stripwith arcuate contact portions;

FIG. 29 depicts a side cross-sectional view of still another exemplaryalternative rotatable electrical coupling assembly having a rotatabledrum carried by a threaded tube collar;

FIG. 30 depicts a partial side elevation view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly having conductive traces and integrated MIDbrushes in the handle assembly;

FIG. 31 depicts a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view ofa selectively coupleable MID brush assembly;

FIG. 32 depicts an exploded perspective view of an exemplary MID drum;

FIG. 33 depicts a perspective view of a rotation drum configured tocarry a PC board;

FIG. 34 depicts front elevation view of a PC board having conductivetraces;

FIG. 35 depicts a perspective view of an assembled exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly using the PC board of FIG. 34 and therotation drum of FIG. 33;

FIG. 36 depicts a side elevation view of the assembled exemplaryrotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 35 shown with a portionof the transfer casing removed and with a transducer;

FIG. 37 depicts perspective views of various alternative brush contacts;

FIG. 38 depicts a partial perspective view of an exemplary alternativerotatable electrical coupling assembly having a PC board with conductivetraces and a transfer casing integrated into a handle assembly;

FIG. 39 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary alternativerotatable electrical coupling assembly having a PC board and conductivewave springs;

FIG. 40 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary alternativerotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 39 showing a pair of tabarms securing an insertable ring;

FIG. 41 depicts a perspective view of the exemplary alternativerotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 39 shown with the outercasing omitted;

FIG. 42 depicts a top plan view of two strings of electrodes havingintegrated conductive ring contacts;

FIG. 43 depicts a rear elevation view of an exemplary rotatableelectrical coupling assembly showing a casing having conductive rings;

FIG. 44 depicts a partial side cross-sectional view of the exemplaryrotatable electrical coupling assembly of FIG. 43 taken along line 44-44of FIG. 43, showing a circuit board, transducer, and sensor integratedwith the casing.

The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it iscontemplated that various embodiments of the technology may be carriedout in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depictedin the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming apart of the specification illustrate several aspects of the presenttechnology, and together with the description serve to explain theprinciples of the technology; it being understood, however, that thistechnology is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the technology shouldnot be used to limit its scope. Other examples, features, aspects,embodiments, and advantages of the technology will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from the following description, which is by wayof illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out thetechnology. As will be realized, the technology described herein iscapable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departingfrom the technology. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions shouldbe regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

I. Overview of Exemplary Ultrasonic Surgical System

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary ultrasonic surgical system (10) comprising anultrasonic surgical instrument (50), a generator (20), and a cable (30)operable to couple generator (20) to surgical instrument (50). Asuitable generator (20) is the GEN 300 sold by Ethicon Endo-Surgery,Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio. By way of example only, generator (20) may beconstructed in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Pub. No.2011/0087212, entitled “Surgical Generator for Ultrasonic andElectrosurgical Devices,” published Apr. 14, 2011, the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein. It should be noted thatsurgical instrument (50) will be described in reference to an ultrasonicsurgical instrument; however, the technology described below may be usedwith a variety of surgical instruments, including, but not limited to,endocutters, graspers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices,drug/gene therapy delivery devices, and energy delivery devices usingultrasound, RF, laser, etc., and/or any combination thereof as will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. Moreover, while the present example will be described inreference to a cable-connected surgical instrument (50), it should beunderstood that surgical instrument (50) may be adapted for cordlessoperation, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2009/0143797,entitled “Cordless Hand-held Ultrasonic Cautery Cutting Device,”published Jun. 4, 2009, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Furthermore, surgical device (50) may also be used, oradapted for use, in robotic-assisted surgery settings such as thatdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,524, entitled “Robotic Surgical Toolwith Ultrasound Cauterizing and Cutting Instrument,” issued Aug. 31,2004.

Surgical instrument (50) of the present example includes a multi-piecehandle assembly (60), an elongated transmission assembly (70), and atransducer (100). Transmission assembly (70) is coupled to multi-piecehandle assembly (60) at a proximal end of transmission assembly (70) andextends distally from multi-piece handle assembly (60). In the presentexample transmission assembly (70) is configured to be an elongated,thin tubular assembly for endoscopic use, but it should be understoodthat transmission assembly (70) may alternatively be a short assembly,such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2007/0282333, entitled“Ultrasonic Waveguide and Blade,” published Dec. 6, 2007, and U.S. Pat.Pub. No. 2008/0200940, entitled “Ultrasonic Device for Cutting andCoagulating,” published Aug. 21, 2008, the disclosures of which areincorporated by reference herein. Transmission assembly (70) of thepresent example comprises an outer sheath (72), an inner tubularactuating member (not shown), a waveguide (not shown), and an endeffector (80) located on the distal end of transmission assembly (70).In the present example, end effector (80) comprises a blade (82) coupledto the waveguide, a clamp arm (84) operable to pivot at the proximal endof transmission assembly (70), and, optionally, one or more clamp pads(86) coupleable to clamp arm (84). The waveguide, which is adapted totransmit ultrasonic energy from a transducer (100) to blade (82), may beflexible, semi-flexible, or rigid. One merely exemplary ultrasonictransducer (100) is Model No. HP054, sold by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.of Cincinnati, Ohio. It should also be understood that clamp arm (84)and associated features may be constructed and operable in accordancewith at least some of the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 5,980,510, entitled“Ultrasonic Clamp Coagulator Apparatus Having Improved Clamp Arm PivotMount,” issued Nov. 9, 1999, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. The waveguide may also be configured to amplify themechanical vibrations transmitted through the waveguide to blade (82) asis well known in the art. The waveguide may further have features tocontrol the gain of the longitudinal vibration along the waveguide andfeatures to tune the waveguide to the resonant frequency of the system.

In the present example, the distal end of the blade (82) is disposednear an anti-node in order to tune the acoustic assembly to a preferredresonant frequency f_(o) when the acoustic assembly is not loaded bytissue. When transducer (100) is energized, the distal end of blade (82)is configured to move longitudinally in the range of, for example,approximately 10 to 500 microns peak-to-peak, and preferably in therange of about 20 to about 200 microns at a predetermined vibratoryfrequency f_(o) of, for example, 55.5 kHz. When transducer (100) of thepresent example is activated, these mechanical oscillations aretransmitted through the waveguide to end effector (80). In the presentexample, blade (82), being coupled to the waveguide, oscillates at theultrasonic frequency. Thus, when tissue is secured between blade (82)and clamp arm (84), the ultrasonic oscillation of blade (82) maysimultaneously sever the tissue and denature the proteins in adjacenttissue cells, thereby providing a coagulative effect with relativelylittle thermal spread. An electrical current may also be providedthrough blade (82) and clamp arm (84) to also cauterize the tissue.While some configurations for transmission assembly (70) and transducer(100) have been described, still other suitable configurations fortransmission assembly (70) and transducer (100) will be apparent to oneor ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Multi-piece handle assembly (60) of the present example comprises amating housing portion (62) and a lower portion (64). Mating housingportion (62) is configured to receive transducer (100) at a proximal endof mating housing portion (62) and to receive the proximal end oftransmission assembly (70) at a distal end of mating housing portion(62). An aperture, described in more detail below, is provided on thedistal end of mating housing portion (62) for insertion of varioustransmission assemblies (70). A rotation knob (66) is shown in thepresent example to rotate transmission assembly (70) and/or transducer(100), but it should be understood that rotation knob (66) is merelyoptional. Lower portion (64) of multi-piece handle assembly (60)includes a trigger (68) and is configured to be grasped by a user usinga single hand. One merely exemplary alternative configuration for lowerportion (64) is depicted in FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0015660,entitled “Rotating Transducer Mount for Ultrasonic SurgicalInstruments,” published Jan. 20, 2011, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein.

Toggle buttons (not shown) may be located on a distal surface of lowerportion (64) and may be operable to activate transducer (100) atdifferent operational levels using generator (20). For instance, a firsttoggle button may activate transducer (100) at a maximum energy levelwhile a second toggle button may activate transducer (100) at a minimum,non-zero energy level. Of course, the toggle buttons may be configuredfor energy levels other than a maximum and/or minimum energy level aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Moreover, the toggle buttons may be located anywhereelse on multi-piece handle assembly (60), on transducer (100), and/orremote from surgical instrument (50), and any number of toggle buttonsmay be provided.

While multi-piece handle assembly (60) has been described in referenceto two distinct portions (62, 64), it should be understood thatmulti-piece handle assembly (60) may be a unitary assembly with bothportions (62, 64) combined. Multi-piece handle assembly (60) mayalternatively be divided into multiple discrete components, such as aseparate activation portion (operable either by a user's hand or foot)and a separate mating housing portion (62). The activation portion maybe operable to activate transducer (100) and may be remote from matinghousing portion (62). Multi-piece handle assembly (60) may beconstructed from a durable plastic (such as polycarbonate or a liquidcrystal polymer), ceramics and/or metals or any other suitable materialas will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Still other configurations for multi-piece handleassembly (60) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein. For instance, instrument (50) may beoperated as part of a robotic system. Other configurations formulti-piece handle assembly (60) will also be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. By way ofexample only, surgical instrument (50) may be constructed in accordancewith at least some of the teachings of U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2006/0079874;U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2007/0191713; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2007/0282333; U.S.Pat. Pub. No. 2008/0200940; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0015660; U.S. Pat.No. 6,500,176; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0087218; and/or U.S. Pat. Pub.No. 2009/0143797. Additional configurations that may be incorporatedinto surgical instrument (50) are described in U.S. Patent ApplicationSerial No. [Attorney Docket No. END7012USNP.0587824], entitled“Ultrasonic Surgical Instrument with Modular End Effector,” filed Oct.10, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

II. Exemplary Rotatable Electrical Coupling Assemblies

In some instances it may be useful to a user to rotate transducer (100)while using surgical instrument (50). For example, rotation oftransducer (100) may permit end effector (80) to be rotated such thatclamp arm (84) may be reoriented relative to handle assembly (60). Thismay allow the user to clamp and sever tissue at a variety of angles. Insome instruments, if cable (30) is directly electrically coupled totransducer (100), then rotation of transducer (100) and/or end effector(80) may twist cable (30) and/or the wires of cable (30). Accordingly,providing a rotatable electrical coupling may reduce or eliminate thispotential twisting and/or binding of cable (30) and/or the wires.

A. Exemplary Nodal Flanged Transducer

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary transducer (200) having a pair of nodalflanges (210, 220) operable to electrically couple transducer (200) tocasing contacts (260, 270) of a casing (250). It should be understoodthat transducer (200) may constitute a modified version of transducer(100) described above. Transducer (200) of the present example comprisesa plurality of piezoelectric elements (230) that are compressed betweena first resonator (234) and a second resonator (236) to form a stack ofpiezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (230) may be fabricatedfrom any suitable material, for example, lead zirconate-titanate, leadmeta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or any suitable piezoelectric crystalmaterial. In the present example, distal nodal flange (210) includes aconductive material located on the circumference of distal nodal flange(210). Distal nodal flange (210) is coupled to first resonator (234) andis located at a node of transducer (200). A node is a point where thedisplacement due to the ultrasonic vibrations transmitted throughtransducer (200) is at zero. Proximal nodal flange (220) includes aconductive material located on the circumference of proximal nodalflange (220). In addition, proximal nodal flange (220) is located justdistal of the proximal-most piezoelectric element (230) and is alsolocated at a node of transducer (200), though this arrangement is merelyoptional. For instance, proximal nodal flange (220) may be coupled tosecond resonator (236), between other piezoelectric elements (230), onfirst resonator (234), and/or otherwise.

In the present example, proximal nodal flange (220) is configured to beelectrically coupled to a positive, or “hot,” wire from a cable, such ascable (30), while distal nodal flange (210) is configured to beelectrically coupled to a negative or ground wire from the cable. Thus,nodal flanges (210, 220) are configured to create a voltage potentialacross the plurality of piezoelectric elements (230) therebetween viaone or more electrodes (232) such that the plurality of piezoelectricelements (230) convert the electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations.Accordingly, when a power supply is coupled to the cable and the powersupply is activated, such ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted distallyto a waveguide (202). Waveguide (202) may be coupled to a blade of anend effector (such as blade (82) and end effector (80) described above)such that the ultrasonic oscillation of the blade may simultaneouslysever the tissue and denature the proteins in adjacent tissue cells,thereby providing a coagulative effect with relatively little thermalspread.

In the present example, second resonator (236) is electrically coupledto distal nodal flange (210) via a center bolt (not shown). Secondresonator (236) is also electrically coupled to the proximal-mostpiezoelectric element (230) such that a voltage potential is createdacross proximal-most piezoelectric element (230) from proximal nodalflange (220) to second resonator (236). It should be understood thatproximal nodal flange (220) of the present example comprises an annulusthat does not electrically couple to the center bolt. In some instances,an insulator may be provided between proximal nodal flange (220) andcenter bolt. Accordingly, no shim or wire is needed to cross proximalnodal flange (220) to electrically couple the proximal-mostpiezoelectric element (230) to distal nodal flange (210). In someversions, distal nodal flange (210) may be further configured tosubstantially secure transducer (200) in the axial direction while stillpermitting rotation. For instance, casing (250) may include a tab orcollar to restrict the axial movement of distal nodal flange (210). Inother versions, nodal flanges (210, 220) may include an annular groovesuch that casing contacts (260, 270) are insertable therein to ensure anadequate electrical connection. Of course transducer (200) and nodalflanges (210, 220) may have other configurations as will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Casing (250) of the present example may be constructed in accordancewith at least some of the teachings of handle assembly (60) describedabove; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2006/0079874; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2007/0191713;U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2007/0282333; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2008/0200940; U.S.Pat. Pub. No. 2011/0015660; U.S. Pat. No. 6,500,176; U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2011/0087218; U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2009/0143797; and/or otherwise. In thepresent example, casing (250) includes casing contacts (260, 270).Distal casing contact (260) is configured to electrically couple todistal nodal flange (210), and proximal casing contact (270) isconfigured to electrically couple to proximal nodal flange (220). Casingcontacts (260, 270) of the present example are further configured tomaintain the electrical coupling with nodal flanges (210, 220) even whentransducer (200) is rotated. For instance, casing contacts (260, 270)may comprise resiliently biased pins, slip rings, resiliently biasedleaf springs, resiliently biased lever arms with end contacts, and/orany other contact as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein. Casing contacts (260, 270) areelectrically coupled to one or more wires (not shown) such thatelectrical power is transmittable from a power supply, such as generator(20) or a battery, to transducer (200). In some versions, one of thecasing contacts (260, 270) may be electrically coupled to a wire that iselectrically coupled to a switch that is operable by a trigger orbutton. Accordingly, the trigger or button may be used to selectivelyactivate transducer (200). Of course further arrangements for casing(250) and casing contacts (260, 270) will be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

When the user is using a surgical instrument, the user may desire torotate the end effector to sever tissue. Accordingly, casing contacts(260, 270) and nodal flanges (210, 220) permit the user to rotate theend effector and transducer (200) together through 360 degrees ofrotation without disengaging transducer (200) from the power supply.

B. Exemplary Bridge Electrical Coupling

FIGS. 3-5 depict another exemplary transducer (300) having bridges (310,320) electrically coupling two or more alternating electrodes (332) ofpiezoelectric elements (330). Piezoelectric elements (330) arecompressed between a first resonator (334) and a second resonator (336)to form a stack of piezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (330)may be fabricated from any suitable material, for example, leadzirconate-titanate, lead meta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or anysuitable piezoelectric crystal material between electrodes (332). In thepresent example, alternating electrodes (332) are electrically coupledvia bridges (310, 320) such that a voltage potential is formed acrossthe plurality of piezoelectric elements (330) when a power supply iscoupled to bridges (310, 320). Accordingly, when the power supply isactivated, the plurality of piezoelectric elements (330) convert theelectrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. Such ultrasonic vibrationsare transmitted distally to a waveguide (not shown). As describedpreviously, the waveguide may be coupled to a blade of an end effectorsuch that the ultrasonic oscillation of the blade may simultaneouslysever the tissue and denature the proteins in adjacent tissue cells,thereby providing a coagulative effect with relatively little thermalspread.

As shown in FIG. 3, a first bridge (310) electrically couples a pair ofalternating electrodes (332) and is configured to electrically couple toa power supply via a first ring contact (360), as will be describedbelow. In the present example, first bridge (310) is configured toreceive the positive, or “hot,” electrical connection from the powersupply. As shown in FIG. 3, a subsequent bridge (312) is electricallycoupled to first bridge (310) via common electrode (332). Subsequentbridge (312) comprises an insulating material to electrically isolatesubsequent bridge (312) from inadvertently electrically coupling toother components except the desired electrodes (332) to which subsequentbridge (312) is electrically coupled. Second bridge (320) electricallycouples a pair of alternating electrodes (332) (that are different fromthe electrodes (332) that first bridge (310) electrically couples) andsecond bridge (320) is configured to electrically couple to a powersupply via a second ring contact (370), as will be described below. Inthe present example, second bridge (320) is configured to receive thenegative or ground electrical connection from the power supply. Whilethe present exemplary transducer (300) depicts four piezoelectricelements (330), it should be understood that any number of piezoelectricelements (330) may be used, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein. For instance, one or moreadditional bridges (not shown) having insulating similar to subsequentbridge (312) may be electrically coupled to second bridge (320) and/orfirst bridge (310) via a common electrode (332) or subsequentelectrically coupled electrodes (332). Accordingly, a plurality ofpiezoelectric elements (330) and electrodes (332) may be coupled bybridges (310, 312, 320) to form any number of piezoelectric elementstacks. Of course still further arrangements for transducer (300) and/orbridges (310, 312, 320) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

A transducer casing (350) comprises a first ring contact (360) and asecond ring contact (370) disposed therein. In the present example,transducer casing (350) comprises a cup-like member having an opendistal end that is configured to fit over the proximal end of transducer(300). Transducer casing (350) comprises a plastic member, though othernon-conductive or conductive members with insulating may be used aswell. In other versions, transducer casing (350) may be insulatedelectrically using a diode circuit or any other electrical components,as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. As best seen in FIGS. 4-5, transducer casing (350)includes a pair of notches (352) into which first ring contact (360) andsecond ring contact (370) are inserted and secured. Ring contacts (360,370) may comprise split ring contacts, resilient leaf springs, coilsprings, and/or any other contact as will be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. First ring contact(360) is positioned such that first bridge (310) is substantially incontact with, and electrically coupled to, first ring contact (360) evenwhen transducer (300) is rotated 360 degrees about a longitudinal axis.Second ring contact (370) is positioned such that second bridge (320) issubstantially in contact with, and electrically coupled to, second ringcontact (370) even when transducer (300) is rotated 360 degrees about alongitudinal axis. FIGS. 4-5 demonstrate one merely exemplaryarrangement for ring contacts (360, 370) such that bridges (310, 320)electrically couple to the corresponding ring contacts (360, 370). Asshown in FIG. 4, subsequent bridge (312) (which includes insulatingmaterial) contacts, but does not electrically couple to, second ringcontact (370). Accordingly, a user may rotate transducer (300) withintransducer casing (350) while bridges (310, 320) remain electricallycoupled to ring contacts (360, 370).

Transducer casing (350) further comprises housing mounts (380) and apair of longitudinal slots (390). Housing mounts (380) are operable tosecure transducer casing (350) to a handle assembly, such as handleassembly (60) described above, such that transducer casing (350) doesnot rotate when transducer (300) is rotated. Longitudinal slots (390)each include a hole (392) through which a wire (394) may be coupled to acorresponding ring contact (360, 370). For instance, wires (394) may besoldered to ring contacts (360, 370). Alternatively, wires (394) may becoupled to ring contacts (360, 370) via selectively coupleableelectrical connectors (spades, ring contacts, crimped connectors, etc.).Wires (394) are coupled to a power supply, such as generator (20) and/ora battery, such that electrical power is transmittable to ring contacts(360, 370) and subsequently to bridges (310, 320). In some versions, oneof the wires (394) may be electrically coupled to a switch that isoperable by a trigger or button such that the trigger or button may beused to selectively activate transducer (300).

Other suitable arrangements for transducer casing (350) and ringcontacts (360, 370) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein. For instance, in some versionstransducer casing (350) may include a distal member or tab operable tolongitudinally secure transducer (300) to transducer casing (350). Sucha distal member or tab may selectively engage a flange or other featureof transducer (300). In further versions, transducer casing (350) and/ortransducer (300) may be carried by a translatable member such that thelongitudinal location of transducer casing (350) and/or transducer (300)may be controlled by the user. For instance, transducer casing (350) maybe actuatable via a trigger to selectively disengage and reengage ringcontacts (360, 370) with bridges (310, 320) when trigger is pivoted.Such actuation may electrically isolate transducer (300) until thetrigger is pulled.

C. Exemplary Plug-in Electrical Coupling Assembly

FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary transducer (400) with a central bolt (410)having a proximal aperture (416) configured to receive a cable plug(450) therein. Transducer (400) of the present example comprises aplurality of piezoelectric elements (430) that are compressed between afirst resonator (432) and a second resonator (434) to form a stack ofpiezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (430) may be fabricatedfrom any suitable material, for example, lead zirconate-titanate, leadmeta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or any suitable piezoelectric crystalmaterial. A plurality of electrodes (420) are disposed between adjacentpiezoelectric elements (430). In the present example, bridges (422)electrically couple alternating electrodes (420). Thus, when electrodes(420) are coupled to a power supply, a voltage potential is appliedacross the plurality of piezoelectric elements (430) via bridges (422).Bridges (422) may include an insulating material to prevent inadvertentelectrical coupling of bridges (422) with the alternating electrodes(420) and/or other components, though this is merely optional. It shouldbe understood that bridges (422) of the present example are merelyexemplary and electrodes (420) may be electrically coupled through anyother electrical connector as will be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, a central bolt (410) extends longitudinallythrough central holes formed in each of the piezoelectric elements (430)and electrodes (420). Bolt (410) may comprise a non-conductive materialor, in some versions, bolt (410) may comprise a conductive material withinsulating material electrically isolating one or more electrodes (420)from bolt (410). In addition or in the alternative, a gap may beprovided between the exterior of bolt (410) and the inner diameter ofthe central openings of piezoelectric elements (430). Central bolt (410)includes a longitudinally extending recess (418) formed therein andextending distally from a proximal aperture (416). As shown in FIG. 6,central bolt (410) forms a female socket configured to receive cableplug (450), as will be described in greater detail below. In the presentexample, a proximal electrode (424) is electrically coupled to aproximal detent (412) formed on central bolt (410) such that proximalelectrode (424) is selectively electrically coupled to a proximalconductive portion (470) of cable plug (450). A distal electrode (426)is electrically coupled to a distal detent (414) formed on central bolt(410) such that distal electrode (426) is selectively electricallycoupled to a distal conductive portion (460) of cable plug (450). Ofcourse detents (412, 414) are merely exemplary and other features forcentral bolt (410) may be provided as will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For instance,resiliently biased pins or balls, flexible tabs, conductive duck billseals, etc. may be provided.

Cable plug (450) of the present example includes a body (452) having adistal conductive portion (460) and a proximal conductive portion (470).Conductive portions (460, 470) of the present example comprise annularrecessed portions of cable plug (450) configured to receive andelectrically couple to detents (412, 414). Distal conductive portion(460) is electrically coupled to a first wire (not shown) of a cable,such as cable (30), and proximal conductive portion (470) iselectrically coupled to a second wire of the cable. The cable is coupledto a power supply such that the first and second wires transmitelectrical power to conductors (460, 470). In some instances, cable plug(450) may be constructed in a similar manner to a stereo plug. As willbe appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein, when cable plug (450) is inserted into recess (418)and the power supply is electrically coupled to detents (412, 414) viaconductive portions (460, 470), electrodes (420) create a voltagepotential across the plurality of piezoelectric elements (430)therebetween such that the plurality of piezoelectric elements (430)convert the electrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. Such ultrasonicvibrations are transmitted distally through a waveguide (402). Waveguide(402) may be coupled to a blade of an end effector (such as blade (82)of end effector (80)) such that the ultrasonic oscillation of the blademay simultaneously sever the tissue and denature the proteins inadjacent tissue cells, thereby providing a coagulative effect withrelatively little thermal spread.

In the present example, the user may rotate transducer (400) and/or theend effector to sever tissue at a variety of orientations. Whentransducer (400) is rotated, conductive portions (460, 470) of cableplug (450) remain electrically coupled to detents (412, 414) such thattransducer (400) remains electrically coupled to the power supplythroughout the rotation. Other suitable arrangements and/orconfigurations for cable plug (450) and/or transducer (400) will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. For instance, a plurality of conductive portions (460, 470) maybe formed on cable plug (450) to electrically couple each electrode(420). In such an arrangement, bridges (422) may be eliminated. Furtherstill, cable plug (450) may be rotationally fixed relative to transducer(400). By way of example only, cable plug (450) may be mechanicallysecured to a handle assembly, such as handle assembly (60) describedabove, while transducer (400) is mounted therein by ball-bearing membersthat permit rotation of transducer (400) relative to the handleassembly.

D. Exemplary Electrode-based Electrical Coupling Assemblies

In some instances it may be preferable to utilize the electrodes oftransducer (100) as part of the electrical coupling assembly. Utilizingthe electrodes may reduce the number of components for transducer (100)while still permitting transducer (100) to be rotatable. In addition,the reduction in the number of parts may reduce the cost of producingtransducer (100) and/or permit automated assembly of transducer (100)due to the integrated electrical coupling assembly. Accordingly, variousexamples of transducers utilizing electrodes as part of the electricalcoupling assembly will now be described in greater detail.

i. Exemplary Electrodes with Outer Housing Stator

FIGS. 7-8 show an exemplary transducer (500) having a plurality ofenlarged electrodes (510) extending circumferentially outwardly fromtransducer (500) and engaging with a plurality stator conductors (560)of a stator casing (550). Transducer (500) of the present examplecomprises a plurality of piezoelectric elements (530) that arecompressed between a first resonator (532) and a second resonator (534)to form a stack of piezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (530)may be fabricated from any suitable material, for example, leadzirconate-titanate, lead meta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or anysuitable piezoelectric crystal material. As shown best in FIG. 8,electrodes (510) comprise conductive discs disposed between adjacentpiezoelectric elements (530), each having a central opening to permit acentral bolt to extend therethrough. When electrodes (510) arealternatingly coupled to the positive, or “hot,” lead of a power supplyand to the negative or ground, then a voltage potential is appliedacross the plurality of piezoelectric elements (530). Accordingly, thevoltage potential across the plurality of piezoelectric elements (530)causes the plurality of piezoelectric elements (530) to convert theelectrical power into ultrasonic vibrations. Such ultrasonic vibrationsare transmitted distally through a waveguide (502). Waveguide (502) maybe coupled to a blade of an end effector (such as blade (82) of endeffector (80)) such that the ultrasonic oscillation of the blade maysimultaneously sever the tissue and denature the proteins in adjacenttissue cells, thereby providing a coagulative effect with relativelylittle thermal spread. Transducer (500) of the present example furtherincludes a horn flange (504) configured to abut a distal ledge (552) ofstator casing (550), as will be described in more detail below. Hornflange (504) may further include a seal (not shown) to fluidly seal hornflange (504) to distal ledge (552).

Stator casing (550) comprises a plurality of stator conductors (560)configured to electrically couple to the plurality of electrodes (510).Stator casing (550) of the present example comprises a non-conductivematerial, such as plastic, though stator casing (550) may be insulatedelectrically using a diode circuit or any other electrical components,as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Stator casing (550) is configured to couple to ahandle assembly, such as handle assembly (60), such that transducer(500) may be rotated relative to stator casing (550) while stator casing(550) does not rotate. Of course stator casing (550) may alternativelybe secured to other components of the surgical instrument or statorcasing (550) may be unsecured. Stator casing (550) further includes adistal ledge (552) configured to abut horn flange (504). In the presentexample, stator conductors (560) comprise flat conductive ringsconfigured to abut and electrically couple to electrodes (510). As willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein, distal ledge (552) abutting horn flange (504) and statorconductors (560) abutting electrodes (510) are positioned such thatstator conductors (560) compress against electrodes (510). In someversions, one or more springs and/or other resilient members may beprovided to compress stator conductors (560) against electrodes (510).Connector tabs (562) extend from stator conductors (560) and areconfigured to couple to a positive, or “hot,” wire from a power supplyor to a negative or ground wire. In the example shown in FIGS. 7-8,connector tabs (562) extend outwardly from stator casing (550) atpredetermined orientations such that stator conductors (560) that arecoupled to the positive wire of the power supply have connector tabs(562) oriented in a first direction while stator conductors (560) thatare coupled to the negative wire of the power supply have connector tabs(562) oriented in a second direction. Of course connector tabs (562) aremerely optional and the wires from the power supply may instead bedirectly coupled to stator conductors (560). Alternatively, jumper wiresmay be provided to electrically couple corresponding stator conductors(560).

In the present example, the user may rotate transducer (500) and/or theend effector to sever tissue at a variety of orientations. Whentransducer (500) is rotated, electrodes (510) remain electricallycoupled to stator conductors (560) throughout the rotation of transducer(500). Thus, electrodes (510) of transducer (500) may be used as part ofthe rotational electrical coupling assembly that maintains theelectrical connection between transducer (500) and the power supply.Other suitable configurations for stator casing (550), stator conductors(560), and/or transducer (500) will be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teaching herein.

ii. Exemplary Waved Electrodes

FIGS. 9-10 depict an alternative transducer (600) having a plurality ofwaved electrodes (610) extending outwardly from transducer (600) andengaging with one or more conductors (660) within channels (652) of astator casing (650). Transducer (600) of the present example comprises aplurality of piezoelectric elements (630) that are compressed between afirst resonator (632) and a second resonator (634) to form a stack ofpiezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (630) may be fabricatedfrom any suitable material, for example, lead zirconate-titanate, leadmeta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or any suitable piezoelectric crystalmaterial. Waved electrodes (610) are disposed between piezoelectricelements (630), and each waved electrode (610) includes a centralopening configured to permit a central bolt to extend therethrough.While only some of the electrodes of transducer (600) are shown as wavedelectrodes (610), it should be understood that all of the electrodes oftransducer (600) may comprise waved electrodes (610), though this ismerely optional. Waved electrodes (610) are alternatingly coupled to apositive, or “hot,” lead of a power supply and to a negative or ground.A voltage potential is thereby applied across the plurality ofpiezoelectric elements (630). The voltage potential across the pluralityof piezoelectric elements (630) causes the plurality of piezoelectricelements (630) to convert the electrical power into ultrasonicvibrations. Such ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted distally througha waveguide (602). Waveguide (602) may be coupled to a blade of an endeffector (such as blade (82) of end effector (80)) such that theultrasonic oscillation of the blade may simultaneously sever the tissueand denature the proteins in adjacent tissue cells, thereby providing acoagulative effect with relatively little thermal spread.

As shown best in FIG. 10, waved electrodes (610) comprise conductivediscs having an arcuate portion (612) extending outwardly from a centralaxis of electrodes (610). Arcuate portion (612) comprises a plurality ofridges (614) forming a non-flat or wavy surface. By way of example only,ridges (614) may be radial ridges extending outwardly and configured insimilar manner to the ridges of a bottle cap. In other versions, ridges(614) may be circumferentially oriented ridges. Ridges (614) areconfigured to contact conductors (660) such that electrodes (610) areelectrically coupled to conductors (660) when arcuate portion (612) isinserted into channels (652). As shown in FIG. 10, arcuate portion (612)comprises a 90 degree arc of ridged material, though this is merelyoptional. In some versions, arcuate portion (612) may comprise an arc ofridges (614) less than 90 degrees or more than 90 degrees. For instance,arcuate portion (612) may extend 360 degrees about each electrode (610)to form a continuous ridged disc.

Referring back to FIG. 9, stator casing (650) comprises a plurality ofchannels (652) having a conductor (660) contained within each channel(652). In some versions, conductors (660), channels (652), and statorcasing (650) may comprise molded interconnect devices (“MIDs”), thoughthis is merely optional. In the present example, channels (652) aresized to receive arcuate portion (612) of a corresponding electrode(610) therein. In some versions channels (652) may be sized smaller thanridges (614) of arcuate portions (612) such that ridges (614) arecompressed within channels (652). Such compression of ridges (614) maymaintain the electrical coupling of arcuate portions (612) withconductors (660) of each channel (652). Conductors (660) are coupled toa corresponding wire of a power supply such that electrical power issupplied to electrodes (610) to create a voltage potential across thepiezoelectric elements (630) of transducer (600). Similar to statorcasing (550) described above, stator casing (650) of the present exampleis secured to a handle assembly, such as handle assembly (60), such thattransducer (600) may rotate relative to stator casing (650). Of coursestator casing (650) may alternatively be secured to other components ofthe surgical device or stator casing (650) may be unsecured. Still otherconfigurations for stator casing (650) will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, the user may rotate transducer (600) and/or theend effector to sever tissue at a variety of orientations. Whentransducer (600) is rotated, electrodes (610) rotate and remainelectrically coupled to conductors (660) within channels (652) viaarcuate portions (612). Thus, electrodes (610) of transducer (600) maybe used as part of the rotational electrical coupling assembly thatmaintains the electrical power connection between transducer (600) andthe power supply. Other suitable configurations for stator casing (650),electrodes (610), and/or transducer (600) will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teaching herein.

E. Exemplary Proximal Mounted Electrical Coupling Assemblies

In some instances it may be preferable to provide the rotatableelectrical coupling assembly at a proximal end of transducer (100) orintegrated into a distal end of cable (30). Such a configuration may bepreferable if there is limited room in surgical instrument (50) at adistal end of transducer (100).

i. Exemplary Proximally Mounted Pancake Slip Ring Connector Assembly

FIGS. 11-12 depict a rotatable outer housing assembly (700) having aplurality of outer rotor discs (710) configured to electrically coupleto a plurality of inner stator discs (760) mounted to an inner statorassembly (750). Outer housing assembly (700) of the present examplecomprises a distal wall (702) having a plurality of members (704)configured to couple outer housing assembly (700) to a proximal end of atransducer. Members (704) are configured to secure outer housingassembly (700) to the transducer such that when the transducer isrotated, outer housing assembly (700) also rotates. Members (704) of thepresent example comprise resilient plastic fingers configured toselectively couple to a head of a bolt of the transducer such thatrotation of the transducer (and therefore the bolt) also rotates outerhousing assembly (700) via members (704). Outer housing assembly (700)further includes a main body portion (706) having a plurality ofrecesses (708) configured to receive outer rotor discs (710) therein. Insome versions, main body portion (706) may comprise one or moreclamshell portions that couple together to secure inner stator assembly(750) therein, though this is merely optional. As best seen in FIG. 12,outer rotor discs (710) comprise conductive discs configured toelectrically couple to inner stator discs (760) when inner stator discs(760) are compressed against outer rotor discs (710), thereby forming apancake slip ring assembly. Outer rotor discs (710) further includeconnectors (712) that are electrically coupled to one or more electrodesof the transducer, such as electrodes (232) disposed betweenpiezoelectric elements (230) described above. As shown in FIG. 11,connectors (712) are located on alternating sides of main body portion(706) and are configured to correspond to a positive, or “hot,” lead andto a negative or ground lead.

Inner stator assembly (750) comprises a distal mandrel (752) and a mainbody portion (754). Main body portion (754) includes a plurality ofinner stator discs (760) mounted to main body portion (754) via channels(756). In the present example, inner stator discs (760) compriseconductive discs configured to compress against and electrically coupleto outer rotor discs (710). Distal mandrel (752) is configured to abutdistal wall (702) to provide a force to compress inner stator discs(760) against outer rotor discs (710). Inner stator discs (760) furtherinclude inner connectors (762) that are electrically coupled to apositive and/or a negative wire from a cable, such as cable (30), toprovide electrical power to inner stator discs (760). Thus, inner statordiscs (760) are configured to provide electrical power to the electrodesof a transducer via the rotatable pancake slip ring formed with outerrotor discs (710).

Using the present outer rotor assembly (700) and inner stator assembly(750), the user may rotate transducer (700) and/or the end effectorrelative to inner stator assembly (750) to a variety of angles to severtissue at a variety of orientations. When the transducer is rotated (andtherefore outer rotor assembly (700) is rotated via members (704)), theelectrodes of the transducer remain electrically coupled to the powersupply via the pancake slip ring assembly formed by the electricalcoupling assembly of outer rotor discs (710) and inner stator discs(760). Other suitable configurations for outer rotor assembly (700)and/or inner stator assembly (750) will be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teaching herein. For instance, in someversions, outer rotor assembly (700) may be coupled to the cable whileinner stator assembly (750) is coupled to the transducer and electrodes.

ii. Exemplary Spring-biased Pancake Slip Ring Connector Assembly

An exemplary alternative outer rotor assembly (800) and inner statorassembly (850) are shown in FIG. 13. In this example, outer rotorassembly (800) comprises an outer housing (810) having a plurality ofslots (812) configured to receive tabs (822) of a plurality of outerrotor discs (820). Outer housing (810) of the present example is coupledto and rotates with a transducer (not shown) at a distal end (818) ofouter housing (810). In some versions, outer housing (810) is securedvia distal wall (818) to a proximal end of the transducer, though thisis merely optional. In other versions, outer housing (810) is integrallyformed with the transducer, such as to the transducer casing (notshown), to form a homogeneous continuum of material. Outer housing (810)also includes a proximal end wall (814) having a proximal aperture (816)configured to permit a portion of inner mandrel (860) to extendtherethrough. Outer rotor discs (820) comprise conductive discs havingoutwardly extending tabs (822) that insert into slots (812) of outerhousing (810). Accordingly, when outer housing (810) is rotated, outerrotor discs (820) also rotate via tabs (822). Tabs (822) are furtherconfigured to electrically couple to the electrodes of the transducersuch that electrical power supplied to outer rotor discs (820) istransmitted to corresponding electrodes of the transducer. Outer rotordiscs (820) of the present example are configured to electrically coupleto inner stator discs (870) of inner stator assembly (850) therebyforming a pancake slip ring connection.

Inner stator assembly (850) comprises an inner mandrel (860) having aplurality of slots (862) configured to receive inwardly extending tabs(872) from a plurality of inner stator discs (870). Inner mandrel (860)is further configured to receive a cable, such as cable (30), such thatthe wires of the cable electrically couple to tabs (872) extending intoinner mandrel (860). In the present example, inner stator discs (870)are mechanically coupled to inner mandrel (860) via the insertion oftabs (872) into slots (862). Thus, if inner mandrel (860) isrotationally secured, such as being secured to handle assembly (60)and/or cable (30), then inner stator discs (870) are likewiserotationally secured. Accordingly, outer rotor assembly (800) (andtherefore the transducer) may be rotated relative to inner statorassembly (850) while inner stator assembly (850) does not rotate.

Inner stator discs (870) of the present example comprise conductivediscs disposed about inner mandrel and configured to electrically coupleto outer rotor discs (820) to form pancake slip ring assemblies. In thepresent example, a plurality of insulating annular spacers (880) arelocated between each pancake slip ring assembly. As shown in FIG. 13, adistal-most annular spacer (880) abuts distal wall (818) of outerhousing (810) and a proximal-most annular spacer (880) abuts a wavespring (890). Wave spring (890) is secured against proximal-most annularspacer (880) via proximal end wall (814) of outer casing (810). In thepresent example, a retaining clip (892) is coupled to inner mandrel(860) via an annular channel (864) formed in a portion of inner mandrel(860) that extends proximally of proximal end wall (814). Thus,retaining clip (892) prevents proximal translation of proximal end wall(814) of outer casing (810) by “sandwiching” outer casing (810) betweenthe proximal end of the transducer and retaining clip (892).Accordingly, with the proximal end of wave spring (890) secured viaproximal end wall (814), the distal end of wave spring (890) compressesinner stator discs (870), outer rotor discs (820), and annular spacers(880) together and against distal wall (818) of outer casing (810). Suchcompression may further ensure inner stator discs (870) and outer rotordiscs (820) are electrically coupled. In some versions, inner statordiscs (870) and/or outer rotor discs (820) may further comprise ridgingor bumps to further ensure electrical coupling of inner stator discs(870) with outer rotor discs (820).

In the present example, when electrical power is supplied via the cableand tabs (872), inner stator discs (870) transmit the electrical powerto outer rotor discs (820). The electrical power is further transmittedfrom outer rotor discs (820) to the electrodes of the transducer. Thus,even when the transducer (and therefore the outer rotor assembly (800))is rotated by the user, electrical power is continuously supplied fromthe cable to the electrodes of the transducer throughout the rotation.Other suitable configurations for outer rotor assembly (800) and innerstator assembly (850) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

iii. Exemplary Threaded Cable Connector Assembly

FIGS. 14-15 depict an exemplary threaded connector assembly (900)comprising a cable end (910) configured to thread into a complementarythreaded recess (960) formed in a member (952) coupled to a proximal endof a transducer (950). Cable end (910) of the present example comprisesa threaded end (920) and a plurality of wires (930) extending distallyfrom cable end (910). Wires (930) are electrically coupled to electrodes(not shown) of transducer (950). Accordingly, electrical power suppliedthrough cable end (910) is transmitted to the electrodes of transducer(950) via wires (930). In the present example, wires (930) are furtherconfigured to have a length such that threaded end (920) of cable end(910) may be substantially unthreaded from threaded recess (960) whilewires (930) remain coupled to the electrodes of transducer (950). In theexample shown in FIG. 15, cable end (910) also includes ledges (912)configured to insert into slots (not shown) of a handle assembly (notshown). Accordingly, when transducer (950) is rotated within the handleassembly, cable end (910) is rotationally secured within the slots vialedges (912) while cable end (910) is permitted to translate proximallyor distally in response to the threading of cable end (910) into or outof threaded recess (960).

In the example shown in FIG. 14, wires (930) are further configured suchthat wires (930) are substantially untwisted when cable end (910) isthreaded to a middle point of threaded recess (960). Accordingly, whentransducer (950) is rotated in a first direction, cable end (910)threads into threaded recess (960) towards a distal-most position ofthreaded recess (960) and wires (930) twist for a predetermined amountof windings. When transducer (950) is rotated a second direction,opposite to the first direction, cable end (910) unthreads from threadedrecess (960) towards a proximal-most position of threaded recess (960)and wires (930) twist in the opposite direction for a predeterminedamount of windings. A broken thread (not shown) at a proximal end ofthreaded recess (960) prevents cable end (910) from decoupling fromthreaded recess (960), though this is merely optional.

When a user initially desires to use the surgical instrument havingthreaded connector assembly (900), initially the user rotates transducer(950) until cable end (910) is threaded to a middle point, or zeropoint, of threaded recess (960). Accordingly, during a surgicalprocedure, the user may rotate transducer (950) a predeterminedrotations until threaded end (920) of cable end (910) is fully threadedinto threaded recess (960) or until threaded end (920) encounters thebroken thread at the proximal end of threaded recess (960). It should beunderstood that the number of predetermined rotations are determined bythe number of threads on threaded end (910) and in threaded recess(960). By way of example only, threaded recess (960) shown in FIG. 14includes ten threads such that transducer (950) may be rotated fiverotations from the zero point in a first direction and five rotations inthe opposite direction. Of course any number of threads may be provided.Furthermore, threaded connector assembly (900) may have otherconfigurations as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the artin view of the teachings herein.

F. Exemplary Ball Bearing Electrical Coupling Assemblies

FIG. 16 depicts an exemplary alternative transducer (1000) having a ballbearings (1050) to electrically couple transducer (1000) to wires (1090)in a casing (1060) (a portion of which has been omitted to show ballbearings (1050)). Transducer (1000) of the present example comprises aplurality of piezoelectric elements (1010) that are compressed between afirst resonator (1012) and a second resonator (1014) to form a stack ofpiezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (1010) may be fabricatedfrom any suitable material, for example, lead zirconate-titanate, leadmeta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or any suitable piezoelectric crystalmaterial. A plurality of electrodes (1020) are disposed between adjacentpiezoelectric elements (1010). In the present example, bridges (notshown) electrically couple alternating electrodes (1020). The bridgesmay further include an insulating material to prevent inadvertentelectrical coupling of the bridges with the alternating electrodes(1020) and/or other components. It should be understood that the bridgesof the present example are merely exemplary and electrodes (1020) may beelectrically coupled through any other electrical connector as will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. Merely exemplary alternative electrical connectors may includeconductive traces (such as those of a printed computer board or PCB)formed in a casing of transducer. Referring back to the present example,when electrodes (1020) are coupled to a power supply, a voltagepotential is applied across the plurality of piezoelectric elements(1010) via the bridges. The voltage potential across the plurality ofpiezoelectric elements (1010) causes the plurality of piezoelectricelements (1010) to convert the electrical power into ultrasonicvibrations. Such ultrasonic vibrations are transmitted distally througha waveguide (1002). Waveguide (1002) may be coupled to a blade of an endeffector (such as blade (82) of end effector (80)) such that theultrasonic oscillation of the blade may simultaneously sever the tissueand denature the proteins in adjacent tissue cells, thereby providing acoagulative effect with relatively little thermal spread.

In the present example, transducer (1000) further includes a first lowerannular trough (1030) and a second lower annular trough (1040). Lowerannular troughs (1030, 1040) are configured to receive ball bearings(1050) therein. A portion of an electrode (1020) is exposed within eachlower trough (1030, 1040) such that ball bearings (1050) contact andelectrically couple to the respective electrode (1020). In someversions, a conductor (not shown) may be electrically coupled to eachelectrode (1020) and positioned within a corresponding lower trough(1030, 1040) to further aid the electrical coupling of ball bearings(1050) to electrodes (1020). Ball bearings (1050) are secured withinlower troughs (1030, 1040) via an annular casing (1060) havingcomplementary upper annular troughs (1070, 1080). Wires (1090) areinserted through casing (1060) such that an end of each wire (1090) isexposed within a corresponding upper trough (1070, 1080) to electricallycouple to the ball bearings (1050). In some versions, a conductor (notshown) may be electrically coupled to each wire (1090) and positionedwithin a corresponding upper trough (1070, 1080). Accordingly, when apower supply is coupled to wires (1090), ball bearings (1050) transmitthe electrical power to electrodes (1020), thereby providing electricalpower to transducer (1000). As will be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein, transducer (1000) may berotated relative to casing (1060) while the electrical power is stillsupplied to transducer (1000) via ball bearings (1050). In someversions, an electrically conductive lubricant may be added to troughs(1030, 1040, 1070, 1080) to enhance the electrical coupling of ballbearings (1050) to electrodes (1020) and wires (1090). Other suitableconfigurations for transducer (1000) having ball bearings (1050) will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

One merely exemplary alternative configuration for a transducer (1100)having ball bearings (1150) is shown in FIG. 17. In such aconfiguration, lower troughs (1130, 1140) are formed on an outer surfaceof transducer (1100) and a pair of wires (1122) extend from electrodes(1120) into lower troughs (1130, 1140). In the present example, aninsulator (1148) is provided between each bearing assembly toelectrically isolate the bearing assemblies from each other. Casing(1160) of the present example retains ball bearings (1150) withintroughs (1130, 1140) and may be constructed in accordance with at leastsome of the teachings of casing (1060) described above. A pair of wires(1190) are electrically coupled to ball bearings (1150) via uppertroughs (1170, 1180) formed in casing (1160). Thus, when a power supplyis coupled to wires (1190), the electrical power is transmitted toelectrodes (1120) via ball bearings (1150). Accordingly, transducer(1100) may be rotated relative to casing (1160) while still maintainingan electrical connection with the power supply.

FIG. 18 depicts yet a further exemplary alternative configuration for atransducer (1200) having ball bearings (1250) electrically coupled toelectrodes (1220). Transducer (1200) of the present example isconfigured in substantially the same manner as transducer (1000)described above. Transducer (1200) includes a pair of annular lowertroughs (1230, 1240) having exposed electrodes (1220) therein. In thepresent example, casing (1260) comprises an annular member having a pairof recesses (1262) formed on opposite sides of casing (1260). In theexample shown in FIG. 18, recesses (1262) include a pair of resilientsprings (1264) configured to urge ball bearings (1250) into troughs(1230, 1240). Wires (1270) are coupled to springs (1264) such that whena power supply is coupled wires (1270), springs (1264) and ball bearings(1250) transmit the electrical power to electrodes (1220), therebyproviding electrical power to transducer (1200). As will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein,transducer (1200) may be rotated relative to casing (1260) while poweris still supplied to transducer (1200) via ball bearings (1250). In someversions, an electrically conductive lubricant may be added to troughs(1230, 1240) to enhance the electrical coupling of ball bearings (1250)to electrodes (1220) and wires (1270).

Of course other configurations for transducer (1200) will be apparent toone of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Forinstance, in some versions resiliently biased pogo pins may be usedinstead of ball bearings (1250). Further still, troughs (1230, 1240) maybe omitted and a conductor or flexible circuit may be coupled to theexterior of transducer (1200) such that the pogo pins engage andelectrically couple to the conductor or flexible circuit.

G. Exemplary Drum Slip Ring Electrical Coupling Assemblies

In some versions, it may be preferable to provide an electrical couplingassembly about a distal end of transducer (100), such as at a hornportion of transducer (100). For instance, an electrical couplingassembly on a distal end of transducer (100) may permit the length ofthe handle assembly to be shortened, thereby reducing the overall sizeand bulk of the surgical instrument. Further still, including theelectrical coupling assembly at or near the distal end of transducer(100) may provide a counter weight to cable (30) attached at theproximal end of transducer (100), thereby providing additionallongitudinal balance to the surgical instrument. Accordingly, variousannular assemblies disposed about a distal portion of transducer (100)will now be described in greater detail.

i. Exemplary Drum Slip Ring Assembly with a Tube Collar Cap

FIG. 19 depicts an exemplary transducer (1300) electrically coupled to adrum (1350) disposed about a distal portion of transducer (1300).Transducer (1300) of the present example comprises a plurality ofpiezoelectric elements (1310) that are compressed between a firstresonator (1312) and a second resonator (1314) to form a stack ofpiezoelectric elements. Piezoelectric elements (1310) may be fabricatedfrom any suitable material, for example, lead zirconate-titanate, leadmeta-niobate, lead titanate, and/or any suitable piezoelectric crystalmaterial. A plurality of electrodes (1320) are disposed between adjacentpiezoelectric elements (1310) such that a voltage gradient may beapplied across piezoelectric element (1310) contained therebetween.Accordingly, when the voltage gradient is applied across piezoelectricelement (1310), piezoelectric element (1310) converts the electricalenergy into oscillating mechanical energy. In the present example, theplurality of electrodes (1320) are coupled to drum (1350) via wires(1322).

A tube collar cap (1330) is coupled to a distal portion of transducer(1300) and is configured such that when transducer (1300) is rotated,tube collar cap (1330) also rotates. By way of example only, tube collarcap (1330) may be coupled to transducer (1300) via threading, adhesives,set screws, integral formation, and/or otherwise. A pair of cylindricalrails (1332) extend proximally from tube collar cap (1330) and rails(1332) are configured to couple to and carry drum (1350) thereon.Accordingly, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein, when transducer (1300) and tube collar cap(1330) are rotated, drum (1350) also rotates via rails (1332). In theassembly shown, rails (1332) insert into holes (not shown) formed indrum (1350). In the present example, rails (1332) and drum (1350) aresized and configured such that drum (1350) does not contact transducer(1300), yet drum (1350) still rotates with transducer (1300). It shouldbe understood that this is merely optional, and in other configurations,drum (1350) may be in contact with or coupled to transducer (1300). Itshould also be understood that tube collar cap (1330) and/or otherrotatable components may be supported in handle assembly (60) bybearings, etc.

Drum (1350) comprises a rotatable tubular member having a first annularconductive portion (1352) on a first circumferential surface (1354) anda second annular conductive portion (1356) on a second circumferentialsurface (1358). Drum (1350) of the present example comprises a plasticbody, though other materials, including metals, composites, insulatedmetals, ceramics, etc. may be used as well. In the present example,conductive portions (1352, 1356) are manufactured with drum (1350) usingMolded Interconnect Device (“MID”) technology. In some versions,conductive portions (1352, 1356) may be formed by drawing a piece ofconductive material to form a continuous surface or, in other versions,a strip of conductive material may be wrapped around to form a ring ofconductive material. It should be understood that annular conductiveportions (1352, 1356) are merely exemplary and any other cylindrical orsubstantially cylindrical conductive member may be disposed aboutcircumferential surfaces (1354, 1358). For instance, in some versionsresilient leaf springs, such as beryllium-copper leaf springs, may bedisposed about drum (1350). Moreover, while conductive portions (1352,1356) are shown on the exterior of drum (1350), it should be understoodthat conductive portions (1352, 1356) may be formed on any surface orcombination of surfaces of drum (1350). By way of example only,conductive portions (1352, 1356) may be formed on a distal face of drum(1350), a proximal face of drum (1350), an interior surface of drum(1350), on an exterior surface of drum (1350), on a distal face of araised annulus (1360), on a proximal face of raised annulus (1360), onan external surface of raised annulus (1360) and/or any other surface orcombination of surfaces of drum (1350). Accordingly, the positioning ofconductive portions (1352, 1356) may be readily determined by one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein based upon theradial and/or axial constraints. Moreover, it should be understood thatthe inclusion of a conductive portion (1352, 1356) on raised annulusresults in a slip ring assembly having offset and/or differentdiameters. In some versions drum (1350) may include a tapered centralbore such that the inner surface of the central bore conforms to thecontours of the tapered transducer (1300). Still other suitableconfigurations for drum (1350) having a conductive material thereon willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

A raised annulus (1360) divides first circumferential surface (1354)from second circumferential surface (1358). Raised annulus (1360) isconfigured to insert into a recess (1362) in a casing (1360). In someversions, a seal (not shown) may be provided in recess (1362) or onraised annulus (1360). Accordingly, first circumferential surface (1354)and first annular conductive portion (1352) may be electrically andphysically isolated from second circumferential surface (1358) and asecond annular conductive portion (1356). First annular conductiveportion (1352) of the present example is electrically coupled to a firstset of electrodes (1320) via a first wire (1322), and second annularconductive portion (1356) is coupled to a second set of electrodes(1320) via a second wire (1322).

An annular casing (1370), as mentioned above, is disposed about drum(1350) and is coupled to a handle assembly (not shown) such that casing(1370) is prevented from rotating relative to drum (1350). Casing (1370)comprises a pair of pogo pins (1380) configured to engage andelectrically couple to annular conductive portions (1352, 1356). A pairof wires (1382) extend into casing (1370) and electrically couple pogopins (1380) to a power supply (e.g., generator (20), etc.). Accordingly,when pogo pins (1380) engage annular conductive portions (1352, 1356)and the power supply is coupled to wires (1382), electrical power istransmitted to transducer (1300) via annular conductive portions (1352,1356) and wires (1322). When transducer (1300) is rotated by a user,drum (1350) is also rotated via rails (1332) of tube collar cap (1330).As drum (1350) is rotated, pogo pins (1380) continually engage andelectrically couple to annular conductive portions (1352, 1356), therebycontinuing to provide electrical power to transducer (1300) even whentransducer (1300) is rotated through 360 degrees about the longitudinalaxis.

Other suitable configurations for drum (1350) and/or transducer (1300)will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. For instance, pogo pins (1380) may be omitted andcasing (1370) may include a molded interconnect device (“MID”) having aconductive portion that is configured to engage and electrically coupleto annular conductive portions (1352, 1356), thereby electricallycoupling the power supply to transducer (1300). In yet anotheralternative, casing (1370) may be omitted entirely and the MID componentmay be integrated into a surface of a handle assembly, such as handleassembly (60) described above. Alternatively, the handle assembly mayinclude one or more resiliently biased arms having conductive tips. Theresiliently biased arms in this example are configured to electricallycouple the conductive tips with annular conductive portions (1352,1356).

ii. Exemplary Alternative Drums and Conductive Portions

Merely exemplary alternative drums and conductive surfaces for suchdrums are shown in FIGS. 20-24. For instance, FIG. 20 depicts analternative drum (1400) having spade connectors (1410) that areconfigured to electrically couple to crimp contacts (1412). In theexample shown, spade connectors (1410) are each electrically coupled toa respective conductive ring (1402, 1404) of drum (1400). Accordingly,when drum (1400) is used in a rotatable electrical coupling assembly,such as that shown in FIG. 19, spade connectors (1410) permit drum(1400) to be quickly electrically coupled or decoupled from theelectrodes of a transducer via crimp contacts (1412). In some versions,this may permit the user to replace the transducer or the piezoelectricstack without decoupling drum (1400) from the rotatable electricalcoupling assembly. FIG. 21 shows one merely exemplary set of electrodes(1420) incorporating crimp contacts (1412) at the end of each set ofelectrodes (1420). Electrodes (1420) of the present example arealternatingly stacked with the piezoelectric elements of a transducer,such as transducers (100, 300) described above. Once the piezoelectricstack is assembled, crimp contacts (1412) extend distally and areoperable to electrically couple to drum (1400) via spade connectors(1410).

FIG. 22 depicts an alternative drum (1430) where the conductive portion(1440) for drum (1430) is integrated into the end of a set of electrodessuch as those shown in FIG. 21. Drum (1430) of the present example maybe constructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings of drum(1350) described above. In this example, drum (1430) also includes a peg(1432). Conductive portion (1440) comprises an elongated conductivestrip having a pair tabs with holes (1442, 1444) configured to receivepeg (1432). In the present example, conductive portion (1440) is shownas a flat member that may be bent when attached to drum (1430).Accordingly, this may enable conductive portion (1440) to be cut orstamped out of a flat conductive material and then coupled to the end ofthe set of electrodes. When conductive portion (1440) is to be attachedto drum (1430), initially first hole (1442) is attached to peg (1432).Conductive portion (1440) is then wrapped around drum (1430) untilsecond hole (1444) is attached to peg (1432). Of course it should beunderstood that second hole (1444) may be attached first and first hole(1442) is attached second. In some versions an adhesive may be appliedto further secure conductive portion (1440) to drum (1430). In others,peg (1432) may include a flared portion (not shown) to further secureconductive portion (1440) to drum (1430). Other suitable configurationsfor drum (1430) and/or conductive portion (1440) will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

FIG. 23 depicts an alternative drum (1450) where the conductive portion(1460) for drum (1450) is integrated into the end of a set of electrodessuch as those shown in FIG. 21. Drum (1450) of the present example maybe constructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings of drum(1350) described above. In this example, drum (1450) also includes aplurality of slots (1454) formed in a raised annulus (1452). Conductiveportion (1460) comprises an elongated conductive strip having aplurality of insertable tabs (1462) configured to insert into slots(1454). In the present example, conductive portion (1460) is shown as aflat member that may be bent when attached to drum (1450). Accordingly,this may enable conductive portion (1460) to be cut or stamped out of aflat conductive material and then coupled to the end of the set ofelectrodes. When conductive portion (1460) is to be attached to drum(1450), conductive portion (1460) is wrapped around drum (1450) and tabs(1462) are inserted into slots (1454). In some versions an adhesive maybe applied to further secure conductive portion (1460) to drum (1450).Other suitable configurations for drum (1450) and/or conductive portion(1460) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein.

FIG. 24 depicts yet another alternative drum (1470) where the conductiveportion (1480) for drum (1470) is integrated into the end of a set ofelectrodes such as those shown in FIG. 21. Drum (1470) of the presentexample may be constructed in accordance with at least some of theteachings of drum (1350) described above. In this example, drum (1470)also includes a pair of arced slots (1472) formed in a distal face ofdrum (1470). Conductive portion (1480) comprises an elongated conductivestrip having ends (1482). In the present example, conductive portion(1480) is shown as a flat member that may be bent when attached to drum(1470). Accordingly, this may enable conductive portion (1480) to be cutor stamped out of a flat conductive material and then coupled to the endof the set of electrodes. When conductive portion (1480) is to beattached to drum (1470), conductive portion (1480) is wrapped arounddrum (1470) and ends (1482) are inserted into arcuate slots (1472). Insome versions an adhesive may be applied to further secure conductiveportion (1480) to drum (1470). Other suitable configurations for drum(1470) and/or conductive portion (1480) will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

While the foregoing examples described a single conductive portion foreach drum, it should be understood that the foregoing alternative drumsmay have conductive portions attached to both the distal and proximalends of the drums. Moreover, the foregoing exemplary drums may beconfigured to have a first conductive portion on the distal end of thedrum and a second, different conductive portion on the proximal end ofthe drum. Moreover, it should be understood that the foregoingalternative drums and conductive portions may be integrated into any ofthe enumerated exemplary rotatable electrical coupling assembliesdescribed herein.

iii. Exemplary Alternative Drum Slip Ring Assembly

One merely exemplary alternative drum slip ring assembly is shown inFIGS. 25-27. Referring initially to FIG. 25, a handle assembly (1500)includes a transducer (1550) disposed therein. Handle assembly (1500) ofthe present example may be constructed in accordance with at least someof the teachings of handle assembly (60). Transducer (1550) may beconstructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings oftransducers (100, 300) described herein and/or otherwise. In the presentexample a drum (1520), shown in FIGS. 26-27, comprises a cylindricalmember configured to receive a first annular slip ring (1522) on a firstcircumferential surface (1524) and a second annular slip ring (1526) ona second circumferential surface (1528). Drum (1520) of the presentexample is also secured relative to transducer (1500) such that rotationof transducer (1500) also rotates drum (1520) and vice versa. Drum(1520) may be further configured in accordance with at least some of theteachings of drum (1350) described above.

A casing (1560) is disposed about drum (1520) and, in the presentexample, comprises an upper half (1562) and a lower half (1564)configured to couple together about drum (1520). In the example shown inFIGS. 26-27, upper and lower halves (1562, 1464) couple together viafrictionally fitting pins and recesses. Upper half (1562) furtherincludes a pair of apertures through which brushes (not shown) may beinserted to electrically couple to slip rings (1522, 1526). Of course itshould be understood that in some versions casing (1560) may includeconductors on the interior of upper half (1562) and/or lower half (1564)to form an electrical slip ring assembly with slip rings (1522, 1526).In the present example, casing (1560) further includes a pair of pegs(1566) extending outwardly from opposing sides of casing (1560). Pegs(1566) are configured to insert into longitudinal slots (not shown)formed in handle assembly (1500) such that casing (1560) is rotationallysecured within handle assembly (1500) while casing (1560) is stillpermitted to translate longitudinally via pegs (1566) inserted into theslots. Accordingly, when drum (1520) is disposed about transducer (1550)and casing (1560) is disposed about drum (1520), then casing (1560) ispermitted to translate with drum (1520) and with transducer (1550) inhandle assembly (1500) via pegs (1566) in the slots of handle assembly(1500). Furthermore, it should be understood that since pegs (1566)prevent rotation of casing (1560), when transducer (1550) is rotated,casing (1560) does not rotate. Accordingly, when brushes and/orconductors are coupled to a power supply and electrically coupled toslip rings (1522, 1526) of drum (1520), the slip ring assembly formed bycasing (1560) and drum (1520) permit transducer (1550) to remainelectrically coupled to the power supply even when transducer (1550) isrotated through 360 degrees. Other suitable configurations for drum(1520), transducer (1550), and/or casing (1560) will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

iv. Exemplary Alternative Rotary Electrical Coupling Assembly

FIG. 28 shows yet another exemplary alternative drum slip ring assemblycomprising a drum (1600) and housing (1630) with a biased contact strip(1660). Drum (1600) of the present example is disposed about a portionof a transducer (1602) and drum (1600) comprises a body portion (1610),a raised annulus (1612), and a pair of conductive portions (1620)disposed about a proximal and a distal end of body portion (1610). Drum(1600) may be further constructed in accordance with at least some ofthe teachings of drums (1350, 1410, 1430, 1450, 1470, 1520) and/orotherwise. Housing (1630) of the present example comprises a mainportion (1640) and a hinge portion (1650). Main portion (1640) is aU-shaped member configured to partially fit around drum (1600). Achannel (1644) is formed in main portion (1640). Channel (1644) isconfigured to receive and longitudinally retain raised annulus (1612)when drum (1600) is inserted into main portion (1640). Main portion(1640) further includes two retaining members (1642) configured retainportions of biased contact strip (1660). Biased contact strip (1660)comprises a conductive strip having a plurality of arcuate contactportions (1662). In the present example, contact portions (1662) areconfigured to bias inwardly toward drum (1600) when biased contact strip(1660) is coupled to main portion (1640) via retaining members (1642).In some versions main portion (1640) is integrated into a handleassembly, such as handle assembly (60) described above. In otherversions, main portion (1640) may be longitudinally translatablerelative to the handle assembly via pegs or ledges extending from anouter surface of main portion (1640). Other suitable configurations formain portion (1640) and/or biased contact strip (1660) will be apparentto one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Hinge portion (1650) is configured to pivot from an open position, inwhich drum (1600) may be loaded into main portion (1640), to a closedposition, in which hinge portion (1650) compresses drum (1600) intoengagement with contact portions (1662). Hinge portion (1650) and/ormain portion (1640) may optionally include a retention feature (e.g., alatch, clip, clamp, etc.) to lock hinge portion (1650) in the closedposition. Hinge portion (1650) of the present example includes an arcedrecess (1652) that conforms to a portion of the curvature of drum(1600), though this is merely optional. In the example shown in FIG. 28,hinge portion (1650) is shown in the closed position, therebycompressing and electrically coupling conductive portions (1620) of drum(1600) with contact portions (1662) of biased contact strip (1660).Accordingly, drum (1600) and biased contact strip (1660) remainelectrically coupled even when drum (1600) is rotated through 360degrees of rotation. In some other versions, drum (1600) may be loadedfrom the distal end of drum (1600) and/or from the proximal end of drum(1600), such that drum (1600) is inserted into housing (1630) along alongitudinal path. Drum (1600) and/or housing (1630) may include abeveled edge to facilitate such insertion. Other suitable configurationsfor drum (1600), main portion (1640), and/or hinge portion (1650) willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

v. Exemplary Alternative Rotary Electrical Coupling Assembly

FIG. 29 shows another exemplary alternative drum slip ring assemblycomprising an inner drum (1700), an outer ring (1710), a threaded tubecollar (1720), and a casing (1730). In the present example, inner drum(1700) is a tubular member having conductive contacts (1702) that areelectrically coupled to a transducer (1750) via a pair of transducerwires (1752). Transducer (1750) of the present example may beconstructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings oftransducers (100, 300) and/or otherwise. Transducer (1750) communicateswith a waveguide (1751) and a harmonic blade (not shown), which togetherform an acoustic assembly. The acoustic assembly is supported byrotation knob (1721), which is rotatably coupled to casing (1730). Innerdrum (1700) is also supported by rotation knob (1721). Inner drum (1700)is configured to electrically couple conductive contacts (1702) tocomplementary contacts (1712) on outer ring (1710), as will be discussedin more detail below. In some versions inner drum (1700) may omitcontacts (1702) and instead have a flat surface to which complementarycontacts (1712) engage and electrically couple. Further configurationsfor inner drum (1700) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, a threaded tube collar (1720) is coupled tocasing (1730) at a distal end of threaded tube collar (1720) and toinner drum (1700) at a proximal end of threaded tube collar (1720). Inthe example shown, a tubular portion (1722) of threaded tube collar(1720) is configured to insert into the inner diameter of inner drum(1700) such that inner drum (1700) is carried by tubular portion (1722).Tubular portion (1722) also includes a keyed portion (1724) (shown inphantom) on the exterior surface of tubular portion (1722). Keyedportion (1724) is configured to insert into a key slot formed in innerdrum (1700) such that threaded tube collar (1720) is operable to rotateinner drum (1700). In some versions inner drum (1700) may be configuredto translate on tubular portion (1722) while still being rotationallycoupled to threaded tube collar (1720) by keyed portion (1724). In otherversions, inner drum (1700) may be integrally formed with or physicallycoupled to threaded tube collar (1720) (e.g., adhesively attached,pinned, clipped, bolted, etc.). In such versions, tubular portion (1722)and keyed portion (1724) may be omitted. Threaded tube collar (1720) maybe further constructed in accordance with at least some of the teachingsfor tube collar cap (1330) described above; collar (93) of U.S. Pat.Pub. No. 2006/0079874; tube collar (98) of U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2007/0282333 and/or otherwise.

Outer ring (1710) of the present example is mounted to casing (1730) andis configured to form a slip ring assembly with inner drum (1700). Asshown in FIG. 29, outer ring (1710) includes a pair of complementarycontacts (1712) configured to engage and electrically couple outer ring(1710) with inner drum (1700). Of course, it should be understood thatouter ring (1710) may be omitted and a pair of point contacts may bemounted to casing (1730) to electrical couple to inner drum (1700). Inthe present example, outer ring (1710) is electrically coupled to apower supply (not shown) via wires. Accordingly, with outer ring (1710)and inner drum (1700) electrically coupled, transducer (1750) may berotated relative to casing (1730) while still maintaining electricalpower from a power supply and not twisting any wires within casing(1730). Further configurations for inner drum (1700), outer ring (1710),and/or alternative drum slip ring assembly will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. In someversions, inner drum (1700) and/or outer ring (1710) may be manufacturedas MID components.

It should be understood that aspects of one or more of the precedingdrum slip ring assemblies may be readily combined with aspects of any ofthe other drum slip ring assemblies described herein. It should also beunderstood that the drum slip ring assemblies described above may bereadily combined with any other teachings herein.

H. Exemplary Molded Interconnect Device Electrical Coupling Assembliesfor a Transducer

In some situations, it may be preferable to reduce the number ofcomponents that are used to electrically couple transducer (100) to apower supply. For instance, in some arrangements the brushes of a drumassembly may be integrated into a portion of handle assembly (60). Inaddition or in the alternative, it may be useful to integrate conductivepaths into the drum. In yet further instances it may be preferable tointegrate conductive paths into the brush unit that electrically couplesto the drum. Accordingly, various configurations for electrical couplingassemblies utilizing molded interconnect devices will be describedherein.

FIG. 30 depicts an exemplary handle assembly (1800) having a transducer(1850) disposed therein. Handle assembly (1800) and transducer (1850)may be constructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings ofhandle assemblies (60) and/or transducer (100, 300) described above. Inthe present example, handle assembly (1800) comprises a casing (1810)having a plurality of conductive traces (1820) formed in casing (1810).Conductive traces (1820) may be formed via chemical etching, printing ofconductive ink, as a part of a molded interconnect device, and/orotherwise. Conductive traces (1820) of the present example areelectrically coupled to cable wires (1830), to one or more switches (notshown), to a first brush lead (1840), and to a second brush lead (1842).As shown in FIG. 30, brush leads (1840, 1842) are integrally coupled tocasing (1810) and have conductive portions that are configured toelectrically couple one or more of the cable wires (1830) with acorresponding conductive portion (1862, 1864) of drum (1860).

Drum (1860) of the present example comprises a cylindrical memberdisposed about a distal portion of transducer (1850) and includes a pairof conductive portions (1862, 1864) disposed about the circumference ofdrum (1860). In the example shown, first brush lead (1840) electricallycouples to a first conductive portion (1862) of drum (1860) while secondbrush lead (1842) electrically couples to a second conductive portion(1864) of drum (1860). In some versions, drum (1860) is a moldedinterconnect device having conductive portions (1862, 1864) integrallyformed on drum (1860). Conductive portions (1862, 1864) are furtherelectrically coupled to corresponding electrodes (1852) of a transducer(1850) via transducer wires (1854). Transducer (1850) and electrodes(1852) of the present example may be constructed in accordance with atleast some of the teachings of transducers (100, 300) described above.

When a power supply (e.g., generator (20), etc.) is coupled the cablewires (1830), electrical power is transmitted to transducer (1850) viathe electric coupling assembly formed by brush leads (1840, 1842) anddrum (1860). Accordingly, even when transducer (1850) (and thereforedrum (1860)) is rotated, brush leads (1840, 1842) remain electricallycoupled to conductive portions (1862, 1864), thereby maintaining anelectrical connection with transducer (1850) even when transducer (1850)is rotated through 360 degrees.

Other suitable configurations for brush leads (1840, 1842), drum (1860),and/or handle assembly (1800) will be apparent to one of ordinary skillin the art in view of the teachings herein. For instance, in someversions drum (1860) and brush leads (1840, 1842) need not necessarilybe contained within handle assembly (1800). Instead, drum (1860) andbrush leads (1840, 1842) may be contained within a casing for transducer(1850) and a brush leads (1840, 1842) may be selectively coupled to apower supply when transducer (1850) is inserted into handle assembly(1800). One merely exemplary selective coupling assembly for transducer(1850) may include a nosecone coupled to a distal end of transducer(1850). One merely exemplary construction for such a nosecone is shownand described in reference to FIG. 8B of U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2006/0079874, the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. In addition or in the alternative, brush leads (1840, 1842) maybe omitted, and MID conductive channels may be formed in casing (1810).In such a configuration, conductive rings (1862, 1864) may be omittedand a pair of conductive discs, such as discs (710, 760, 820, 870), maybe provided on drum (1860) to electrically couple transducer (1850) tothe conductive channels formed in casing (1810).

FIG. 31 depicts an exemplary alternative brush assembly (1900) that isselectively coupleable to handle assembly (1800). Brush assembly (1900)of the present example comprises a body member (1910) and a pair ofresiliently biased arms (1920). In the present example, arms (1920)include conductive traces (1922) that terminate in contacts (1924)configured to electrically couple to conductive portions of a drum, suchas drum (1860). Brush assembly (1900) of the present example comprises amolded interconnect device. In some versions, a pair of wires (notshown) may be coupled to conductive traces such that brush assembly(1900) may be coupled to a cable, such as cable (30). Alternatively, aportion of conductive traces (1922) may be exposed on a portion of bodymember (1910) such that when brush assembly (1900) is coupled to handleassembly (1800), brush assembly (1900) electrically couples to exposedelectrical contacts on handle assembly (1800). Further configurationsfor brush assembly (1900) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

In some versions, a stator drum (2000), shown in FIG. 32, may beconfigured to electrically couple to drum (1860) to form a slip ringassembly. In addition or in the alternative, stator drum (2000) mayelectrically couple to resiliently biased arms or brushes. Stator drum(2000) of the present example comprises a molded interconnect deviceformed by the coupling of two halves (2010, 2020) that are configured tofrictionally fit together. Each half (2010, 2020) comprises a plasticbody, a half of a first slip ring (2030), and a half of a second slipring (2040). When halves (2010, 2020) are coupled together, first slipring (2030) and second slip ring (2040) form a pair of continuousexposed slip rings on the interior surface of drum (2000). Each half(2010, 2020) further comprises a pair of longitudinal slots (2050)intersecting with slip rings (2030, 2040). Longitudinal slots (2050) areconfigured to each receive a wire (not shown) therein such that thewires electrically couple slip rings (2030, 2040) with a power supply(e.g., generator (20), etc.). Accordingly, when halves (2010, 2020) arepressed together about drum (1860), slip rings (2030, 2040) electricallycouple to drum (1860), thereby providing electrical power to transducer(1850) while still permitting transducer (1850) to rotate relative tostator drum (2000). Stator drum (2000) further includes a pair of flatportions (2002) on opposing exterior portions of stator drum (2000) suchthat stator drum (2000) is prevented from rotating when flat portions(2002) abut a surface. For instance, flat portions (2002) may abut theinterior of handle assembly (1800), thereby preventing rotation ofstator drum (2000) while drum (1860) is permitted to rotate freelytherein. Flat portions (2002) may still permit stator drum (2000) totranslate within handle assembly (1800). Still further configurationsfor stator drum (2000) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

Of course, other components of the transducer and/or handle assembly maybe molded interconnect devices as well. For instance, as noted above, anosecone that selectively electrically couples the transducer to handleassembly may be formed as an MID component.

I. Exemplary Printed Circuit Board Electrical Coupling Assemblies

In some instances, it may be useful to construct the electrical couplingassemblies that electrically couple transducer (100) to the power supplyfrom cost-effective materials. Merely exemplary cost-effective materialsmay include printed circuit boards (“PCB”) having conductive traces thatmay be electrically coupled to stamped brushes. Various examples of waysin which PCBs may be used to construct electrical coupling assemblieswill be described in greater detail below, while other examples will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

i. Exemplary PCB Electrical Coupling Assembly Having Stamped BrushContacts

One merely exemplary PCB electrical coupling assembly (2100) is shown inFIGS. 33-36. PCB electrical coupling assembly (2100) comprises arotatable PC board (2110) (see FIG. 34), a rotation drum (2120) (seeFIG. 33), a transfer casing (2150) (see FIG. 35), and a pair of stampedbrush contacts (2170) (see FIG. 36). In the example shown in FIG. 36, anexemplary transducer (2190) is shown electrically coupled to PCBelectrical coupling assembly (2100) via a pair of wires (2192).Transducer (2190) may be constructed in accordance with at least some ofthe teachings of transducers (100, 300) described above and/orotherwise. Referring initially to FIG. 34, PC board (2110) of thepresent example comprises a substantially flat disc having conductivetraces (2112) on both sides of PC board (2110). It should be understoodthat a multitude of conductive traces (2112) may be coaxially formed ona single side of PC board (2112) or that only a single conductive trace(2112) may be provided on one side of PC board (2110). Conductive traces(2112) may be formed on PC board (2110) by chemical etching, printing ofconductive ink, as a part of a molded interconnect device, and/orotherwise. Conductive traces (2112) of the present example comprisecircular paths of conductive material (e.g., gold, copper, etc.) suchthat a brush contact (2170) (shown in FIGS. 35-36) is operable toelectrically couple to conductive traces (2112) even when PC board(2110) is rotated through 360 degrees. In the example shown, conductivetraces (2112) further include a coupling point (2114) to which wire(2192) may be soldered, pinned, and/or otherwise electrically coupled toconductive traces (2112). Wire (2192) is then electrically coupled toone or more electrodes (not shown) of transducer (2190). Accordingly, aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein, PC board (2110) is operable to transmit power frombrush contact (2170) to transducer (2190) even when transducer (2190)and PC board (2110) are rotated relative to brush contact (2170).

PC Board (2110) further includes a central aperture (2116) having a pairof key slots (2118). Central aperture (2116) and key slots (2118) aresized and configured to receive a central member (2122) of rotation drum(2120), shown in FIG. 33. Central member (2122) of rotation drum (2120)comprises a hollow cylindrical member configured to fit around a distalportion of transducer (2190). For instance, in the example shown in FIG.36, central member (2122) is disposed about a first resonator oftransducer (2190), though this is merely optional. In other versions,central member (2122) may be disposed about the piezoelectric elementsof transducer (2190). Of course central member (2122) need notnecessarily be disposed about any portion of transducer (2190). In theexample shown in FIG. 33, central member (2122) includes keyed portions(2124) extending outwardly from central member (2122). Keyed portions(2124) are configured to engage with key slots (2118) of PC board (2110)such that rotation drum (2120) rotates PC board (2110) when centralmember (2122) is inserted into central aperture (2116) of PC board(2110). It should be understood that while keyed portions (2124)rotationally couple PC board (2110) to rotation drum (2120), PC board(2110) and/or rotation drum (2120) are permitted to longitudinallytranslate relative to each other with keyed portions (2124) stillengaged with key slots (2118). Accordingly, even if rotation drum (2120)is actuated proximally or distally (e.g., if rotation drum (2120) iscoupled to a translatable transducer), PC board (2110) remains rotatablevia keyed portions (2124) and key slots (2118).

Rotation drum (2120) of the present example is configured to couple totransducer (2190) such that rotation of transducer (2190) also rotatesrotation drum (2120). In the arrangement shown in FIG. 36, rotation drum(2120) includes a flange (2126) configured to couple to a collarassembly (2194) coupled to transducer (2190). Collar assembly (2194) maybe constructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings of tubecollar cap (1330); threaded tube collar (1730); collar (93) of U.S. Pat.Pub. No. 2006/0079874; tube collar (98) of U.S. Pat. Pub. No.2007/0282333 and/or otherwise. Flange (2126) of the present example maybe adhesively or mechanically (e.g., pins, threading, latches, etc.)coupled to collar assembly (2194). Accordingly, when transducer (2190)is rotated, rotation drum (2120) is also rotated. Other suitableconfigurations for coupling rotation drum (2120) to transducer (2190)will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 35-36, a transfer casing (2150) is configured toencase the assembled rotation drum (2120) and PC board (2110) therein.In the example shown, transfer casing (2150) comprises a two-piecehollow cylinder having an annular channel (2152) configured to receiveand retain PC board (2110) therein when transfer casing (2150) isassembled about rotation drum (2120) and PC board (2110). Annularchannel (2152) of the present example is configured to restrict thelongitudinal movement of PC board (2110) relative to transfer casing(2150). Such longitudinal restriction may be useful to ensure anadequate electrical coupling of brush contacts (2170) with conductivetraces (2112), as will be described in more detail below. In otherversions, a resiliently biased member, such as a spring, may be disposedbetween flange (2126) of rotation drum (2120) and a portion of PC board(2110) to bias PC board (2110) in the proximal direction against one ormore brush contacts (2170). Still further configurations will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

Transfer casing (2150) further includes openings (2154) through whichbrush contacts (2170) may be coupled to one or more wires (not shown)from a cable (not shown) configured to provide power to transducer(2190). Brush contacts (2170) of the present example comprise stampedmembers that are operable to engage and electrically couple the cablewith conductive traces (2112) of PC board (2110). In the presentexample, brush contacts (2170) each include a resilient arm (2172), abody portion (2174), and a connection tab (2176). Resilient arm (2172)extends from body portion (2174) and biases away from body portion(2174). As shown in FIG. 36, when PCB electrical coupling assembly(2100) is assembled, resilient arms (2172) brush against andelectrically couple brush contacts (2170) to conductive traces (2112).Body portion (2174) of the present example is configured to couple to aninterior portion of transfer casing (2150) such that brush contacts(2170) are substantially secured to transfer casing (2150). In theexample shown, a tab of transfer casing (2150) inserts into a holeformed in body portion (2174) to secure brush contact (2170) to transfercasing (2150). Of course, other securing components and/or methods maybe used to secure brush contacts (2170) to transfer casing (2150) (e.g.,snaps, clips, clamps, screws, bolts, integral formation, adhesives,etc.). Connection tab (2176) is configured to electrically couple to oneor more wires of the cable. Other suitable configurations for brushcontacts (2170) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein. Merely exemplary alternative brushcontacts (2200, 2202, 2204, 2206, 2208) are shown in FIG. 37.

Transfer casing (2150) of the present example further includes exteriorledges (2156), though this is merely optional. Exterior ledges (2156)are configured to engage slots (not shown) formed in a handle assembly,such as handle assembly (60), to prevent rotation of transfer casing(2150). Accordingly, when the wires from the cable are coupled to brushcontacts (2170) described above, preventing transfer casing (2150) fromrotating may prevent the wires from the cable from tangling. It shouldbe understood that exterior ledges (2156) do not restrict transfercasing (2150) from translating relative to the handle assembly.Accordingly, in some versions PCB electrical coupling assembly (2100)may be integrated into a transducer assembly that may be longitudinallyinserted into a handle assembly via engagement of exterior ledges (2156)with the slots formed in the handle assembly.

When a surgical instrument having PCB electrical coupling assembly(2100) is in use, transducer (2190) remains electrically coupled to thecable and the wires of the cable remain untangled even when the userrotates transducer (2190) through 360 degrees of rotation.

It should be understood that the foregoing description is merely oneexample of a PCB electrical coupling assembly (2100) and other variousconfigurations and/or arrangements will be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For instance, in someversions only a single brush contact (2170) and conductive trace (2112)are used. Alternatively, in some versions brush contacts (2170) may beconfigured to electrically couple to PC board (2110), transfer casing(2150), and/or rotation drum (2120) at a variety of locations. By way ofexample only, brush contacts (2170) may electrically couple toconductive portions located on the interior surface of rotation drum(2120), on the exterior surface of rotation drum (2120), on the proximalsurface of PC board (2110), on the distal surface of PC board (2110),and/or on the exterior surface of transfer casing (2150). Moreover, insome versions brush contacts (2170) may be manufactured using MIDtechnology. It should also be understood that the foregoing PCBelectrical coupling assembly (2100) may be used in conjunction with oneor more of the electrical coupling assemblies described herein. Forinstance, PCB electrical coupling assembly (2100) may electricallycouple one wire from the cable to transducer (2190) while cable plug(450) of FIG. 6 couples a second wire to a proximal end of transducer(2190). In a further alternative, transfer casing (2150) may beintegrated into the handle assembly of the surgical instrument. FIG. 38depicts such a merely exemplary assembly having transfer casing (2150)integrated into a handle assembly (2198).

ii. Exemplary PCB Electrical Coupling Assembly Having Wave Springs

An exemplary alternative PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300) isshown in FIGS. 39-41. PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300) isconfigured to electrically couple a cable (not shown) to a transducer(2310). In the present example, PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300)comprises a PC board (2320), a mounting component (2330), an outercasing (2340), a pair of wave springs (2350), and a pair of transducerwires (2360). PC board (2320) of the present example comprises acylindrical disc with conductive traces (not shown) formed thereon. Suchconductive traces may be constructed in accordance with at least some ofthe teachings of conductive traces (2112) described above. Theconductive traces of the present PC board (2320) each have a couplingpoint, similar to coupling point (2114) described above, to which atransducer wires (2360) electrically couple. In the present example,conductive traces and coupling points are formed on both the proximaland distal sides of PC board (2320), though either side may omit theconductive trace and/or coupling point. PC board (2320) further includesa central aperture configured to couple PC board (2320) to mountingcomponent (2330), as will be described below. PC board (2320) may befurther constructed in accordance with PC board (2110) described aboveor in any other manner as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

In the present example, a distal end (2338) of mounting component (2330)is coupled to a distal flange (2312) of transducer (2310). In someversions, mounting component (2330) may include features configured todampen the vibrations from transducer (2310) (e.g., springs, etc.),though this is merely optional. Mounting component (2330) furtherincludes resilient latching tabs (2332) configured to insert into thecentral aperture of PC board (2320) such that resilient latching tabs(2332) substantially secure PC board (2320) to mounting component(2330). In some versions, latching tabs (2332) may insert into keyslots, such as key slots (2118) described above, of PC board (2320) suchthat PC board (2320) is rotational coupled to mounting component (2330).Of course it should be understood that this is merely optional and PCboard (2320) may be free to rotate relative to mounting component(2330).

A pair of wave springs (2350) (shown best in FIG. 41) are disposed onboth the proximal and distal sides of PC board (2320). In the presentexample, wave springs (2350) are configured to engage and electricallycouple to the conductive traces of PC board (2320). Accordingly, when apower supply is coupled to wave springs (2350), the electrical power istransmitted through wave springs (2350), to the conductive traces of PCboard (2320), and finally through transducer wires (2360) to theelectrodes of transducer (2310). Accordingly, even when transducer(2310) is rotated, wave springs (2350) are continuously electricallycoupled to PC board (2320) and supply electrical power to transducer(2310).

In the present example, wave springs (2350) are secured against PC board(2320) by outer casing (2340) and an insertable ring (2348). Outercasing (2340) of the present example comprises a substantially hollowcylindrical member having a distal interior ledge (2342) (shown in FIG.39) and a pair of resilient latching tab arms (2344) (shown in FIG. 40).Tab arms (2344) are configured to permit insertable ring (2348) to snapinto outer casing (2340) from the proximal end of outer casing (2340).Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 39, outer casing (2340) and insertablering (2348) cooperatively retain wave springs (2350) between interiorledge (2342) and insertable ring (2348). In the present example, outercasing (2340) is longitudinally sized such that wave springs (2350) arecompressed against PC board (2320) when insertable ring (2348) iscoupled to outer casing (2340). As will be appreciated by one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein, if outercasing (2340) is coupled to a handle assembly, such as handle assembly(60), wave springs (2350) may provide an additional damping effect toreduce vibrations transmitted to the handle assembly. Furthermore, byutilizing wave springs (2350), outer casing (2340) need not necessarilybe configured to translate within the handle assembly. Other suitableconfigurations for outer casing (2340) will be apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

To assemble PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300), initially mountingcomponent (2330) is decoupled from all the other components and is usedas the starting component. Outer casing (2340) is then slid over theproximal end of mounting component (2330) until interior ledge (2342) ofouter casing (2340) abuts distal end (2338) of mounting component(2330). A distal wave spring (2350) is then also inserted slid over theproximal end of mounting component (2330) until wave spring (2350) abutsthe proximal surface of interior ledge (2348). With outer casing (2340),and distal wave spring (2350) so positioned, PC board (2320) is thencoupled to mounting component (2330) via latching tabs (2332). Outercasing (2340) and distal wave spring (2350) are then slid proximallysuch that interior ledge (2348) compresses distal wave spring (2350)against PC board (2320). A proximal wave spring (2350) is then insertedinto outer casing (2340) to abut the proximal side of PC board (2320).Insertable ring (2348) is then snapped in and secured to outer casing(2340) via tab arms (2344). With PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300)substantially assembled, PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300) is thenslid over a distal end of transducer (2310) and proximal end (2338) ofmounting component (2330) is secured to distal flange (2312). Theassembled transducer (2310) and PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300)may then be inserted and used with a surgical instrument. Other suitableconfigurations for PCB electrical coupling assembly (2300) will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

In some versions, PC boards (2110, 2320) may omit their respectiveconductive traces and flat conductive rings may instead be coupled to PCboard (2110, 2320). FIG. 42 depicts one merely exemplary set ofelectrodes (2400) incorporating flat conductive rings (2410) at the endof each set of electrodes (2400). Electrodes (2400) of the presentexample are alternatingly stacked with the piezoelectric elements of atransducer, such as transducers (100, 300) described above. Once thepiezoelectric stack is assembled, flat conductive rings (2410) arepositioned distally and are operable to electrically couple to PC boards(2110, 2320). It should be understood that flat conductive rings (2410)may be used with other electrical coupling assemblies. For instance, aplurality of flat conductive rings (2410) may be incorporated into outerhousing assembly (700) shown in FIGS. 11-12 or into outer rotor assembly(800) shown in FIG. 13.

III. Exemplary Integrated Controller with Transducer

In some situations it may be preferable to integrate electroniccomponents within a casing for a rotatable transducer (100). Such aconfiguration may need only a power supply (e.g., generator (20), etc.)to be coupled to the casing in order for transducer (100) to be operableby a user. Moreover, by having the electronic components integratedwithin the casing of transducer (100), only a single temperature sensormay be needed to monitor both the temperature of transducer (100) andthe electronic components. Further still, by including the electroniccomponents within the casing of transducer (100), thicker wires may beused for the electrical couplings due to the short run distances and thereduced need for flexibility. These thicker wires may help mitigate heatgenerated within the surgical instrument.

FIGS. 43-44 depict a transducer assembly (2500) comprising a transducer(2510), a circuit board (2520), a casing (2550), and a pair ofconductive rings (2570). Referring initially to FIG. 44, transducer(2510) is secured to casing (2550) by a flange (2512). By way of exampleonly, flange (2512) may be mechanically coupled to a distal wall (2552)of casing (2550). For example, flange (2512) may be secured viathreading, clips, snaps, clamps, screws, bolts, adhesives, etc. Othersuitable attachments for flange (2512) to distal wall (2552) will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein. Transducer (2510) and/or flange (2512) may further beconstructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings oftransducers (100, 300) and/or otherwise.

In the present example, circuit board (2520) comprises a rigid circuitboard coupled to flange (2512), though this is merely optional. In somealternative versions, circuit board (2520) may be coupled directly tocasing (2550) or to transducer (2510). In the versions that circuitboard (2520) is secured to transducer (2510), circuit board (2520) maycomprise a cylindrical or flexible circuit wrapped about transducer(2510). Circuit board (2520) of the present example is electricallycoupled to the electrodes of transducer (2510) by wires (2522) and toconductive rings (2570) via wires (2524). In some versions a sensor(2530) may be coupled to circuit board (2520). In the example shown inFIG. 44, sensor (2530) is coupled to casing (2550) and is configured tomeasure the temperature of transducer (2510) and/or within casing(2550). Sensor (2530) of the present example comprises a positivetemperature coefficient (“PTC”) sensor, though it should be understoodthat other sensors, including other types of temperature sensors and/orsensors that do not measure temperature, may be used as well. If sensor(2530) measures a predetermined temperature or a temperature exceeding apredetermined threshold, circuit board (2520) and/or another electroniccomponent may be configured to alert the user (e.g., by auditory,visual, and/or tactile feedback) or to disconnect a power supply coupledto transducer (2510) and/or circuit board (2520). In addition or in thealternative, sensor (2530) and/or some other component may automaticallydisconnect transducer (2510) and/or circuit board (2520) from a powersupply in response to a temperature reaching a certain level orexceeding a predetermined threshold.

Casing (2550) of the present example comprises a thin shell configuredto contain transducer (2510) and circuit board (2520) therein. In theinstances where circuit board (2520) comprises a flexible circuit,casing (2550) may be decreased in size to substantially conform to thesize and shape of transducer (2510). As noted above, casing (2550) iscoupled to transducer (2510) at distal wall (2552) of casing (2550).Casing (2550) also includes a proximal wall (2554). Referring back toFIG. 43, proximal wall (2554) of the present example comprises acircular wall having a pair of coaxial conductive rings (2570) coupledto the proximal surface of proximal wall (2554). Conductive rings (2570)are configured to electrically couple to a power supply. By way ofexample only, pogo pins, conductive ball bearings, brushes, PC boardswith conductive traces, and/or other conductive rings may be used toelectrically couple the power supply to conductive rings (2570).Accordingly, transducer assembly (2500) may be rotated through 360degrees without decoupling from the power supply. As noted previously,with circuit board (2520) contained within transducer assembly (2500),power supply may simply comprise a battery that coupled to conductiverings (2570). In some versions, the battery may be coupled to a belt andworn by the user, thereby further enabling the mobility of the userand/or the surgical device. Alternatively, the battery may be integratedinto the surgical instrument. Still other suitable configurations fortransducer assembly (2500) will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art in view of the teachings herein.

For the foregoing examples, it should be understood that the handleassemblies and/or end effectors may be reusable, autoclavable, and/ordisposable. For instance, the foregoing end effectors may be disposablewhile the handle assemblies are reuseable and/or autoclavable. Inaddition, if internal power supplies are used with the foregoing handleassemblies, the internal power supplies may be rechargeable. Forinstance, the handle assemblies may be recharged using a plug inrecharge, by removing and recharging the batteries, by induction, and/orby any other method as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein. Furthermore, alignment features orguides may be included to aid in the alignment and coupling of the endeffectors with handle assemblies. Such guides may help prevent damage tothe end effector and/or handle assembly during the assembly of thesurgical instrument.

While certain configurations of exemplary surgical instruments have beendescribed, various other ways in which surgical instruments may beconfigured will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art inview of the teachings herein. By way of example only, surgicalinstruments referred to herein may be constructed in accordance with atleast some of the teachings of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,500,176; 6,783,524;7,416,101; 7,738,971; 6,783,524; U.S. Pub. No. 2006/0079874; U.S. Pub.No. 2007/0191713; U.S. Pub. No. 2007/0282333; U.S. Pub. No.2008/0200940; U.S. Pub. No. 2009/0209990; U.S. Pub. No. 2009/043797;U.S. Pub. No. 2010/0069940; and/or U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/410,603, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated byreference.

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or otherdisclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to beincorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to theextent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existingdefinitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in thisdisclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure asexplicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting materialincorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, thatis said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts withexisting definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forthherein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arisesbetween that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings,expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may becombined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions,embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. Thefollowing-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc.should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other.Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined willbe readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to beincluded within the scope of the claims.

Embodiments of the present invention have application in conventionalendoscopic and open surgical instrumentation as well as application inrobotic-assisted surgery. For instance, those of ordinary skill in theart will recognize that various teaching herein may be readily combinedwith various teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,524, entitled “RoboticSurgical Tool with Ultrasound Cauterizing and Cutting Instrument,”published Aug. 31, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein.

By way of example only, embodiments described herein may be processedbefore surgery. First, a new or used instrument may be obtained and ifnecessary cleaned. The instrument may then be sterilized. In onesterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealedcontainer, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrumentmay then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate thecontainer, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons.The radiation may kill bacteria on the instrument and in the container.The sterilized instrument may then be stored in the sterile container.The sealed container may keep the instrument sterile until it is openedin a medical facility. A device may also be sterilized using any othertechnique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gammaradiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Embodiments of the devices disclosed herein can be reconditioned forreuse after at least one use. Reconditioning may include any combinationof the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning orreplacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. Inparticular, embodiments of the devices disclosed herein may bedisassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of thedevices may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Uponcleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, embodiments of thedevices may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioningfacility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgicalprocedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioningof a device may utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly,cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and theresulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the presentapplication.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention,further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may beaccomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill inthe art without departing from the scope of the present invention.Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and otherswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, theexamples, embodiments, geometric s, materials, dimensions, ratios,steps, and the like discussed above are illustrative and are notrequired. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should beconsidered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to belimited to the details of structure and operation shown and described inthe specification and drawings.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A surgical instrument, comprising: (a) anultrasonic transducer; (b) a body portion extending along a longitudinalaxis and configured to receive the ultrasonic transducer along thelongitudinal axis such that the ultrasonic transducer is rotatable aboutthe longitudinal axis; and (c) an electrical coupling assemblyconfigured to electrically connect a power supply of an electrical powerto the ultrasonic transducer, the electrical coupling assemblyincluding: (i) a first electrical connection configured to electricallyconnect to the power supply, (ii) a second electrical connectionelectrically connected to the ultrasonic transducer, and (iii) a firstplurality of conductive members secured between the first and secondelectrical connections, wherein the first plurality of conductivemembers electrically connect the first and second electrical connectionssuch that the ultrasonic transducer is configured to receive theelectrical power from the power supply while rotating the ultrasonictransducer relative to the body portion about the longitudinal axis. 22.The surgical instrument of claim 21, wherein the first plurality ofconductive members further includes a first plurality of ball bearings.23. The surgical instrument of claim 21, wherein the electrical couplingassembly further includes a first annular trough about the longitudinalaxis, wherein the first plurality of conductive members is securedwithin the first annular trough.
 24. The surgical instrument of claim23, wherein the first annular trough extends through the body portion.25. The surgical instrument of claim 23, wherein the first electricalconnection further includes a first wire, and wherein at least a portionof the first wire is positioned within the first annular trough.
 26. Thesurgical instrument of claim 23, wherein the electrical couplingassembly further includes a second annular trough about the longitudinalaxis, wherein the second annular trough is radially inward of the firstannular trough, and wherein the first plurality of conductive members issecured within the second annular trough.
 27. The surgical instrument ofclaim 26, wherein the first annular trough extends through the bodyportion, and wherein the second annular trough extends through theultrasonic transducer.
 28. The surgical instrument of claim 26, whereinthe first electrical connection further includes a first wire, whereinat least a portion of the first wire is positioned within the firstannular trough, wherein the second electrical connection furtherincludes a second wire, and wherein at least a portion of the secondwire is positioned within the second annular trough.
 29. The surgicalinstrument of claim 21, wherein the electrical coupling assembly furtherincludes: (i) a third electrical connection configured to electricallyconnect to the power supply, (ii) a fourth electrical connectionelectrically connected to the ultrasonic transducer, (ii) a secondplurality of conductive members secured between the third and fourthelectrical connections, wherein the second plurality of conductivemembers electrically connect the third and fourth electrical connectionssuch that the ultrasonic transducer is configured to receive theelectrical power from the power supply while rotating the ultrasonictransducer relative to the body portion about the longitudinal axis. 30.The surgical instrument of claim 29, wherein the electrical couplingassembly further includes an insulator positioned between the firstplurality of conductive members and the second plurality of conductivemembers such that the first plurality of conductive members iselectrically isolated from the second plurality of conductive members.31. The surgical instrument of claim 21, wherein the electrical couplingassembly further includes a biasing element configured to urge at leastone of the first plurality of conductive members into securement betweenthe first and second electrical connections.
 32. The surgical instrumentof claim 31, wherein the biasing element is electrically connected tothe at least one of the first plurality of conductive members fortransmitting the electrical power therethrough.
 33. The surgicalinstrument of claim 32, wherein the electrical coupling assembly furtherincludes a first annular trough about the longitudinal axis, wherein thebiasing element is positioned against the body portion and urges the atleast one of the first plurality of conductive members into the firstannular trough.
 34. The surgical instrument of claim 33, wherein thefirst plurality of conductive members further includes a first pluralityof ball bearings.
 35. The surgical instrument of claim 34, wherein thebiasing element is a spring, wherein the body portion has a recesstherein, and wherein the spring is received within the recess.
 36. Asurgical instrument, comprising: (a) an ultrasonic transducer; (b) abody portion extending along a longitudinal axis and configured toreceive the ultrasonic transducer along the longitudinal axis such thatthe ultrasonic transducer is rotatable about the longitudinal axis; and(c) an electrical coupling assembly configured to electrically connect apower supply of an electrical power to the ultrasonic transducer, theelectrical coupling assembly including: (i) a first annular trough aboutthe longitudinal axis and extending through the body portion, (ii) asecond annular trough positioned radially inward of the first annulartrough and about the longitudinal axis, wherein the second annulartrough extends through the ultrasonic transducer, (iii) a firstelectrical connection in the first annular trough and configured toelectrically connect to the power supply, (iv) a second electricalconnection in the second annular trough electrically connected to theultrasonic transducer, (v) a first annular arrangement of ball bearingssecured within the first and second annular troughs between the firstand second electrical connections, wherein the first annular arrangementof ball bearings electrically connect the first and second electricalconnections such that the ultrasonic transducer is configured to receivethe electrical power from the power supply while rotating the ultrasonictransducer relative to the body portion about the longitudinal axis. 37.The surgical instrument of claim 36, wherein the first electricalconnection further includes a first wire, wherein at least a portion ofthe first wire is positioned within the first annular trough, whereinthe second electrical connection further includes a second wire, andwherein at least a portion of the second wire is positioned within thesecond annular trough.
 38. The surgical instrument of claim 36, whereinthe electrical coupling assembly further includes: (i) a third annulartrough about the longitudinal axis and extending through the bodyportion, (ii) a fourth annular trough positioned radially inward of thethird annular trough and about the longitudinal axis, wherein the fourthannular trough extends through the ultrasonic transducer, (iii) a thirdelectrical connection in the third annular trough and configured toelectrically connect to the power supply, (iv) a fourth electricalconnection in the fourth annular trough electrically connected to theultrasonic transducer, and (v) a second annular arrangement of ballbearings secured within the third and fourth annular troughs between thethird and fourth electrical connections, wherein the second annulararrangement of ball bearings electrically connect the third and fourthelectrical connections such that the ultrasonic transducer is configuredto receive the electrical power from the power supply while rotating theultrasonic transducer relative to the body portion about thelongitudinal axis.
 39. The surgical instrument of claim 38, wherein theelectrical coupling assembly further includes an insulator positionedbetween the first annular arrangement of ball bearings and the secondannular arrangement of ball bearings such that the first annulararrangement of ball bearings is electrically isolated from the secondannular arrangement of ball bearings.
 40. A method of rotating anultrasonic transducer relative to a body portion of a surgicalinstrument, the surgical instrument includes (a) the ultrasonictransducer; (b) the body portion extending along a longitudinal axis andconfigured to receive the ultrasonic transducer along the longitudinalaxis such that the ultrasonic transducer is rotatable about thelongitudinal axis; and (c) an electrical coupling assembly configured toelectrically connect a power supply of an electrical power to theultrasonic transducer, the electrical coupling assembly including: (i) afirst electrical connection configured to electrically connect to thepower supply, (ii) a second electrical connection electrically connectedto the ultrasonic transducer, (iii) a plurality of conductive memberssecured between the first and second electrical connections, wherein theplurality of conductive members electrically connect the first andsecond electrical connections such that the ultrasonic transducer isconfigured to receive the electrical power from the power supply whilerotating the ultrasonic transducer relative to the body portion aboutthe longitudinal axis, the method comprising: (a) communicating theelectrical power through the plurality of conductive members whilesimultaneously rotating the ultrasonic transducer about the longitudinalaxis relative to the body portion.